The American Diabetes Association® (ADA) applauds the Louisiana House of Representatives for passing House Resolution 267 (HR 267), a measure establishing a comprehensive study focused on the prevention and reduction of diabetes-related amputations in Louisiana.
"The ADA commends Representative Annie Spell and members of the Louisiana House of Representatives for recognizing the importance of early detection and coordinated healthcare services," said Douglas Dunsavage, director of state government affairs. “The state is taking an important step toward better understanding and preventing diabetes-related amputations.”
Diabetes-related amputations are a devastating and costly complication for those living with a chronic disease, but they can be prevented through screenings, treatment, access to care, and patient education. Medical costs, including hospitalization, surgery, rehabilitation, and ongoing care, place a significant burden on patients and the healthcare system in the state.
More than 40 million Americans live with diabetes, and complications related to the disease continue to place a significant burden on individuals, families, and healthcare systems. The bipartisan legislation highlights the importance of bringing together healthcare providers, researchers, and community leaders to identify strategies to reduce amputations and improve access to preventative care.
HR 267 directs the Louisiana Department of Health, the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, and other stakeholders to examine the causes of diabetes-related amputations and develop recommendations to reduce their occurrence. It will evaluate roadblocks to care, patient education opportunities, healthcare access challenges, and evidence-based solutions that can improve outcomes for people living with diabetes.
The findings will help inform future efforts to strengthen diabetes care, improve coordination among healthcare professionals, and increase awareness of prevention strategies that can reduce avoidable amputations throughout the state. By identifying effective prevention strategies, Louisiana has the opportunity to improve health outcomes while reducing future healthcare expenditures.
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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 diabetes—and we’re not stopping. There are over 155 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 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).
