This bill seeks to enhance access to quality foot and ankle care for individuals with diabetes, particularly for Medicaid beneficiaries. It achieves this by amending the Social Security Act to formally recognize podiatric physicians as physicians under the Medicaid program. This crucial change ensures that Medicaid recipients can access necessary services from these specialists, with an effective date of January 1, 2026, and includes provisions for states requiring legislative adjustments. Furthermore, the legislation addresses Medicare coverage for therapeutic shoes provided to persons with diabetes. It modifies the documentation requirements for extra-depth or custom-molded shoes with inserts , streamlining the process. Under the revised rules, a physician must document specific conditions such as peripheral neuropathy or foot deformity, attest to a diabetes diagnosis under a comprehensive care plan, and confirm the individual's need for the specialized footwear. These shoes must then be fitted and furnished by a physician or other qualified professional, with these amendments taking effect on January 1, 2028.