#United States #Austin #AANP #diabetes #DiabeticShoes

AANP Supports New Legislation for Diabetic Care

The American Association of Nurse Practitioners® (AANP) has expressed strong support for the recently introduced Promoting Access to Diabetic Shoes Act. This vital piece of legislation was put forth by Representatives Darin LaHood and Nanette Barragán, aiming to enhance the care of patients dealing with diabetes by streamlining processes within the healthcare system.

Currently, nurse practitioners (NPs), who play a significant role in treating Medicare patients, face outdated restrictions that compel them to refer patients needing diabetic shoes to physicians for certification. This redundant step not only slows down the process but can also lead to unnecessary complications for patients needing immediate care.

Dr. Stephen A. Ferrara, president of the AANP, emphasized that the legislation will remove barriers that have long hindered the delivery of timely healthcare. “Patients should not have to endure outdated barriers to care that come between them and their healthcare provider of choice,” he stated. Reducing unnecessary bureaucratic steps in the healthcare system can significantly improve the quality of life for those living with diabetes.

Under Medicare guidelines, despite NPs being primary care providers for a substantial number of diabetic patients, they lack the authority to certify the need for necessary medical equipment like diabetic shoes. According to AANP statistics, over one-third of Medicare beneficiaries were cared for by NPs in 2020, underscoring their critical role in the healthcare landscape.

For years, NPs have established themselves as trustworthy healthcare providers, effectively managing a wide range of medical concerns including those associated with diabetes. The introduction of the Promoting Access to Diabetic Shoes Act signifies a progressive step towards empowering NPs and ultimately enhancing patient care.

This legislation aims to streamline the process, allowing NPs to assess and certify the need for diabetic shoes without the hindrance of requiring additional physician involvement. Such reforms are crucial as they can lead to quicker access to necessary equipment, reducing complications associated with diabetes, and lowering financial burdens on the Medicare program.

The AANP expresses gratitude towards Representatives LaHood and Barragán for spearheading this necessary initiative and looks forward to the legislation's swift passage. Enhancing the efficiency of the Medicare program is not just about policy change; it’s about improving real-life outcomes for millions of patients.

Celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, AANP represents over 385,000 licensed NPs across the United States. As the largest professional membership organization for nurse practitioners, AANP remains dedicated to advocacy at local, state, and national levels. The organization supports the advancement of health policies, the promotion of educational and research excellence, and the establishment of standards serving both NPs and the consumers they serve. For those looking to find an NP in their community, resources are available at npfinder.com. For more information regarding NPs and their role in healthcare, visit aanp.org.