This legislative bill proposes the creation of the Office of Patient Protection in Minnesota. Key points of the bill include:

1. Establishment of the Office: The Office of Patient Protection will be established to help healthcare consumers with issues related to access to and quality of healthcare. It will also advise the legislature on ways to minimize healthcare costs for consumers and simplify consumer experiences.

2. Appointment of Director: The director of the Office of Patient Protection will be appointed by the governor and will serve at the governor's discretion. This director will manage the office and its responsibilities.

3. Organization: The office will consist of a director and necessary staff, operating as a distinct entity separate from other state agencies. It will not provide healthcare or health insurance services.

4. Responsibilities of the Office:

   • Assistance to Consumers: Establish procedures to assist consumers who are affected by limitations on patient choice, service denials, or reductions in care quality by payers or providers.
   • Collaboration: Work with both private sector and state agency consumer assistance programs to aid consumers with queries or issues regarding public programs and private insurance coverage.
   • Information Collection and Accessibility: Gather and make available information on health plan quality and patient satisfaction on the office's website.
   • Annual Report: Provide a yearly report to the legislature by February 15, outlining the office's work in the previous year and suggesting policy changes to improve consumer experiences by making processes less complex.

In summary, this bill aims to create a dedicated office that focuses on protecting and enhancing consumer experiences and rights in the healthcare sector, fostering better access, quality of care, and transparency in healthcare administration.