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4/9/2026
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House passes Rep. Boylan bill to allow nurses to provide home foot care
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STATE HOUSE — The House today passed legislation from Rep. Jennifer Boylan to help homebound patients access routine foot care at home.
“Most Rhode Islanders recognize the shortage of medical providers when they have trouble finding a primary care provider or have to wait months to see a specialist. But they may not recognize that for some residents, essential services are not available here in Rhode Island home settings. Home foot care services are one of these, leaving many older patients without safe options. It’s especially dangerous for those with diabetes, who are prone to infections and other foot problems that can lead to serious complications and even death,” said Representative Boylan (D-Dist. 66, Barrington, East Providence).
The bill (2026-H 7029A) would allow nurses to provide routine foot care in patients’ homes, provided they get proper training and demonstrate clinical competency.
The legislation now moves to the Senate, which passed companion legislation (2026-S 2116A) from Sen. Lori Urso (D-Dist. 8, Pawtucket) Tuesday.
The bill addresses a critical unmet need for basic, routine and preventative foot care in the home. Many elderly or disabled patients need medical assistance for routine foot care, including noninvasive maintenance of toenails, common corns and calluses.
Under the bill, nurses would need to have knowledge of and demonstrate clinical competency in the structure and function of feet and nails, common foot pathology and related nursing interventions, use of appropriate instruments and other related matters. It would also require that two of their 10 hours of continuing education per certification period be focused on foot care.
“Access to in-home foot care is important for older adults who face mobility, vision, or chronic health challenges. Without regular care, minor foot issues can progress into infections, pain or mobility problems that increase fall risk and lead to more serious medical needs. Home-based foot care supports prevention, early identification of concerns and the ability of older adults to age in place,” said Catherine Taylor, AARP Rhode Island state director.
The bill would provide relief not only to patients, but to their family and caregivers, many of whom are forced to choose between foregoing necessary treatment or taking the risk of trying to provide foot care themselves.
“SACRI remains deeply grateful to Representative Boylan and Senator Urso for their leadership on this important legislation, which will benefit so many homebound and mobility-challenged Rhode Islanders and their caregivers. This is a strong step forward in ensuring that older adults have the healthcare access and support they need to age safely and with dignity in their communities. SACRI is steadfast in our advocacy for policies that expand, improve and empower healthcare options for all Rhode Islanders,” said Carol Anne Costa, executive director of the Senior Agenda Coalition of Rhode Island.
For more information, contact:
Tristan Grau, Publicist
State House Room B20
Providence, RI 02903
401.222.4935
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