In a recent article from New Jersey Globe, Rep. LaMonica McIver (D-NJ) reintroduced the Amputation Reduction and Compassion Act to continue the work of her predecessor Rep. Donald Payne, Jr., who died in 2024 from sudden cardiac arrest due to diabetes. The bill would grant full coverage of peripheral artery disease (PAD) screenings for Medicare and Medicaid patients at higher risks of the disease. In addition to fully covered PAD screenings, the law would also raise awareness of the disease though education programs. This bill is an effort to reduce amputations caused by PAD and diabetes.
Diabetes is a major risk factor for peripheral artery disease. That’s because high blood sugar levels can damage the arteries, leaving fatty deposits behind that cling to the arterial walls. This narrows the arteries, limiting blood flow to the legs and feet. As PAD progresses, the lack of blood flow can lead to blocked blood flow, non-healing wounds, and gangrene—an infection that can lead to amputation. Early diagnosis and treatment of PAD can lower patients’ risks of these complications.
If you are experiencing symptoms of PAD such as pain, discoloration, numbness, weakness, hair loss, or shininess in the legs, schedule a PAD screening here.
For additional information on the bill and what inspired the bill, you can read the late Rep. Payne Jr.’s interview with Endovascular Today.
