HF36

This bill proposes to update the laws regarding non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for Minnesota's health care program beneficiaries. The main purpose is to increase the payment rates for providers of these services. This includes a variety of transportation options like non-emergency medical vehicles, taxis, public transit, and services involving volunteers and not-for-hire vehicles.

The bill outlines that these services should be billed according to Minnesota health care program standards and that all NEMT providers need to meet certain requirements, including having proper driver enrollments and compliance with transportation standards.

The transportation covered must be the most efficient route to medical providers, with limitations on mileage unless authorized. The bill specifies different types of transport services that can be billed, such as lift-equipped transport or transport requiring assistant services. It also introduces a pricing model for payments based on distance and type of transportation, which includes adjustments based on geographic area (urban, rural, super rural) and fluctuating fuel prices.

Additionally, a web-based system is to be implemented by a certain date to streamline administrative tasks like tracking trips and ensuring prompt payment to providers.

This bill aims to ensure adequate access to medical services for those in the state health care program by facilitating more efficient and better-compensated transport services.