SF2128

This bill modifies the certification requirements and medical assistance coverage for Community Emergency Medical Technicians (CEMTs) in Minnesota.

Key Changes to CEMT Certification (Minnesota Statutes 144E.275, Subd. 7)

1. Eligibility Requirements:

   • Must be currently certified as an EMT or Advanced EMT.
   • Must have two years of service as an EMT or AEMT.
   • No longer required to be a member of a medical response unit or a basic life support ambulance service.
   • Must complete a CEMT education program approved by the director or an accredited program, including clinical experience under supervision.
   • Must complete an educational program in providing culturally appropriate care.
   • Must submit a director-approved application form.

2. Scope of Practice:

   • Must operate under protocols set by the medical director of the ambulance service or medical response unit.
   • Can perform services within an approved CEMT skill set.
   • Can provide episodic care, patient education, and disease prevention, following a care plan developed by a primary physician, advanced practice registered nurse, or physician assistant.
   • Allowed activities include assessments, disease monitoring, vaccinations, lab specimen collection, and post-hospital discharge follow-ups.
   • Must coordinate care with other providers if the patient is receiving care coordination services.
   • Required to complete 12 additional hours of continuing education in clinical topics.
   • Cannot administer medication but can provide reminders for patients to take prescribed doses.

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Changes to Medical Assistance Coverage for CEMTs (Minnesota Statutes 256B.0625, Subd. 60a)

1. Covered Services:

   • Post-Discharge Visits: Can visit patients following a hospital or nursing facility discharge if ordered by a healthcare provider. These visits may include:
     • Reminders for discharge orders.
     • Recording and reporting vital signs.
     • Confirming medication and food access.
     • Identifying home hazards.
   • Safety Evaluation Visits: For patients with frequent ambulance calls due to falls or at risk of nursing home placement. These visits, when ordered by a primary care provider, include:
     • Confirming access to medication and food.
     • Identifying home hazards.

2. Payment Structure:

   • CEMTs will be compensated at $100 per hour, billed in 15-minute increments at $25 per increment.
   • Mileage reimbursement of $1.25 per mile for travel to a patient’s home.
   • A post-discharge visit and a safety evaluation visit cannot be billed for the same day for the same patient.
   • CEMTs must have a Unique Minnesota Provider Identifier (UMPI) to receive payments under this program.

This bill aims to expand the role of CEMTs, improve healthcare access, and establish clear guidelines for their compensation and duties.