SF1567

This bill, Minnesota Senate File No. 1567, seeks to establish an Office of Patient Protection within the state. The office would assist consumers with healthcare-related issues, such as access to care, quality concerns, and insurance disputes. It would also advise the legislature on ways to reduce healthcare costs and improve consumer experiences.

Key provisions of the bill include:

1. Establishment of the Office of Patient Protection – A new independent entity separate from other state agencies that does not provide health care or insurance.
2. Director Appointment – The governor would appoint a director to lead the office.
3. Responsibilities of the Office:
   • Assist consumers facing restrictions on patient choice, service denials, and quality reductions from insurers or providers.
   • Collaborate with state and private sector consumer assistance programs to help with insurance and public program concerns.
   • Collect data on health plan quality and patient satisfaction and make it accessible to the public.
   • Submit an annual report to the legislature (by February 15 each year) outlining its work in the previous year and recommending policy changes to simplify healthcare for consumers.

The proposed law would be codified in Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 62J, which governs healthcare cost containment and consumer protections.