What does Preamble of Diabetes Foot Health Access and Modernization Act of 2026 do?

This bill, formally titled 'A BILL To amend title XIX of the Social Security Act to cover physician services delivered by podiatric physicians to ensure access by Medicaid beneficiaries to appropriate quality foot and ankle care, to amend title XVIII of such Act to modify the requirements for diabetic shoes to be included under Medicare, and for other purposes.' aims to modify the Social Security Act. The bill intends to cover physician services provided by podiatric physicians under Medicaid. It also seeks to modify requirements for diabetic shoes under Medicare.

What does SHORT TITLE. of Diabetes Foot Health Access and Modernization Act of 2026 do?

This bill is formally titled the Diabetes Foot Health Access and Modernization Act of 2026.

What does RECOGNIZING DOCTORS OF PODIATRIC MEDICINE AS PHYSICIANS UNDER of Diabetes Foot Health Access and Modernization Act of 2026 do?

This section amends Section 1905(a)(5)(A) of the Social Security Act to modify the definition of 'physician' within the Medicaid program. The amendment changes the reference from 'section 1861(r)(1)' to 'paragraphs (1) and (3) of section 1861(r)' regarding physician definitions. The amendment applies to services furnished on or after January 1, 2026, with a possible extension. If a state plan requires state legislation to comply with the amendment, the state plan will not be considered non-compliant until after the first regular session of the state legislature following the enactment of this Act. For states with two-year legislative sessions, each year is considered a separate regular session.

What does CLARIFYING MEDICARE DOCUMENTATION REQUIREMENTS FOR THERAPEUTIC of Diabetes Foot Health Access and Modernization Act of 2026 do?

This section amends Section 1861(s)(12) of the Social Security Act to clarify documentation requirements for therapeutic shoes for individuals with diabetes. A physician must document that the individual has peripheral neuropathy, a history of foot ulcers, foot deformity, amputation, or poor circulation, and attest to a diabetes diagnosis and comprehensive care plan. The physician must also attest that the individual needs the shoes. The shoes must be fitted and furnished by a physician or qualified individual as established by the Secretary. Section 1877(h)(6) of the Social Security Act is amended to include 'Extra-depth shoes with inserts or custom molded shoes with inserts.' The amendments made by subsection (a) apply to items and services furnished on or after January 1, 2028.

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Diabetes Foot Health Access and Modernization Act of 2026

Last updated: 3/12/2026 · Introduced: 3/12/2026

Author: Todd Young (R-IN)

TL;DR (AI)

This bill expands Medicaid to cover physician services provided by podiatric physicians, ensuring greater access to foot and ankle care for beneficiaries.
It clarifies Medicare documentation requirements for therapeutic shoes for individuals with diabetes, mandating physician documentation of specific conditions and needs.
The bill modifies Medicare to include extra-depth shoes with inserts or custom molded shoes with inserts as qualifying therapeutic footwear.

119th Congressin committeeHR. 7905(In Committee)Official page

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Includes provisions on preamble, short title., and 2 more.

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