This week, Senate Bill 1677, a lifesaving piece of legislation championed by the American Diabetes Association® (ADA) that establishes a comprehensive study on the prevention and reduction of diabetes-related amputations, became law in Texas. Texas has one of the highest rates in the nation for people undergoing diabetes-related amputations, at about 52 per 100,000 hospital admissions. This proactive and fiscally responsible measure will help improve health outcomes and reduce costs related to amputation.
"The passage of Senate Bill 1677 demonstrates a commitment to the health of our citizens,” said Douglas Dunsavage, the ADA’s director of state government affairs in Texas. “This bill will provide invaluable insights and recommendations to dramatically reduce the devastating impact of diabetes-related amputations, preventing disability, and preserving quality of life.”
Senate Bill 1677 requires the study to be conducted by a designated institution of higher education to deliver recommendations for preventative solutions around diabetes-related amputation. By identifying and examining critical information—and developing recommendations for prevention, public awareness, best practices, and policy solutions—this study will empower health care professionals and policymakers with the knowledge needed to dramatically reduce avoidable amputations. Recommendations could include ensuring insurance coverage for therapies and evidence-supported medical tools to improve care.
The cost of medical care associated with diabetes-related amputations, including surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing complications, places a substantial burden on the patient and health care system. By investing in preventative solutions, Texas can reduce the number of amputations performed annually, improving the health and wellbeing of its citizens and reducing future health care expenditures.
The ADA extends its deepest gratitude to bill sponsors Senator Jose Menendez and Representative Gary VanDeaver. With the passage of this legislation, the state took a pivotal step forward in addressing and preventing diabetes-related amputations in Texas.
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About the American Diabetes Association
The American Diabetes Association (ADA) is the nation’s leading voluntary health organization fighting to end diabetes and helping people thrive. This year, the ADA celebrates 85 years of driving discovery and research to prevent, manage, treat, and ultimately cure—and we’re not stopping. There are 136 million Americans living with diabetes or prediabetes. Through advocacy, program development, and education, we’re fighting for them all. To learn more or to get involved, visit us at diabetes.org or call 1-800-DIABETES (800-342-2383). Join us in the fight on Facebook (American Diabetes Association), Spanish Facebook (Asociación Americana de la Diabetes), LinkedIn (American Diabetes Association), and Instagram (@AmDiabetesAssn). To learn more about how we are advocating for everyone affected by diabetes, visit us on X (@AmDiabetesAssn).
