HF3058

Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of the bill is to increase the medical assistance payment rate specifically for nonemergency medical transportation (NEMT) in Minnesota. This amendment aims to adjust reimbursement rates for transportation services provided to beneficiaries of Minnesota's health care programs who require transportation to access medical services but do not need emergency ambulance services.

Main Provisions

• Definition Clarification: The bill defines nonemergency medical transportation as motor vehicle transportation for individuals needing to access medical services but not requiring emergency ambulance services.
• Payment Adjustment: The bill adjusts the reimbursement rates for different types of nonemergency medical transportation services. It specifies rates for various modes like client reimbursement, volunteer transport, unassisted and assisted transport, lift-equipped/ramp transport, protected transport, and stretcher transport.
• Geographical Adjustment: The bill establishes that rates for super rural areas, as determined by the RUCA classification system, are increased by 11.3%, and the mileage rate increases for trips in rural and super rural areas are adjusted accordingly.
• Fuel Price Adjustment: Payment rates per mile will be adjusted based on gasoline prices. If the price of gasoline exceeds $3.00 per gallon, the rate will adjust upward or downward by 1% for every ten-cent increase or decrease.
• Administration and Compliance: Nonemergency medical transportation providers must meet specified standards and compliance requirements. They are also responsible for maintaining logs and submitting claims accurately.
• Role of Local Agencies: Local agencies are designated as the single administrative agency for implementing the mode of transport assessments and managing reimbursements according to state and federal funding conditions.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• Rate Increase: Increases the payment rates for nonemergency medical transportation services, which have been specified per transportation mode and include adjustments based on rural and gasoline price considerations.
• Clarifications and Compliance: Provides additional clarifications on compliance and administration of nonemergency medical transportation services, including new standards and requirements for providers.

Relevant Terms

• Nonemergency Medical Transportation (NEMT)
• Reimbursement Rates
• Minnesota Health Care Programs
• RUCA (Rural Urban Commuting Area)
• Client Reimbursement
• Super Rural Areas
• Gasoline Price Adjustment