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A medical supply company, which provides much-needed personal protection equipment, is finding new ways to meet hospital needs during the novel coronavirus crisis. Medline Industries, based in Illinois, has North Carolina distribution centers in Lincolnton, with 300 workers, and Concord with 75 employees. “We’re covering all of North Carolina and can get anywhere within 24 hours,” said Jesse Greenberg, a company spokesman.

Demand for medical supplies such as ventilators and face masks skyrocketed as COVID-19 took hold. The situation led policymakers to examine how America can better manage medical supply chains.

Medicare Therapeutic Shoe Program

In an effort to prevent foot ulcers in people with diabetes who are at risk, Medicare will help pay for therapeutic shoes. For those who qualify, Medicare will pay 80% of the allowed amount for one pair of shoes and up to three pairs of molded innersoles per year. (The allowed amount varies depending on the kind of footwear you need.) Most secondary insurers will help pay the other 20%.