Commissioner of human services directed to authorize indirect billing for individualized home supports.
Impact
This legislation is expected to improve access to essential services for individuals requiring home support, particularly those with disabilities, elders, or individuals recovering from illness. By recognizing the value of indirect support—for instance, coordinating care or arranging necessary resources—it aims to facilitate more comprehensive support structures. The bill could lead to increased funding and resources for home health care providers, enhancing the overall quality and availability of care for vulnerable populations in Minnesota.
Summary
House File 1095 introduces a directive aimed at enhancing the delivery of individualized home supports by allowing indirect billing for these services. Authored by Representatives Frederick, Curran, and Schomacker, the bill requires the commissioner of human services in Minnesota to submit necessary amendments to home and community-based services waiver plans to the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. The objective is to enable providers to bill for indirect services that are crucial for ensuring continuity of care for the service recipients, specifically when they are not able to be directly involved in the service due to various circumstances.
Contention
Although the bill has significant support due to its potential to streamline the provision of valuable services, there may still be areas of concern, particularly regarding the definition and limits of indirect billing. Stakeholders might argue about what constitutes an acceptable form of indirect service provision and how it should be documented and reimbursed. The need for clear guidelines and accountability will likely be emphasized to prevent misuse of the billing system and to ensure that service recipients genuinely benefit from these provisions. Discussions within legislative and community contexts will be critical in navigating these complexities.
Department of Direct Care and Treatment and Office of Human Services Licensing and Integrity created, duties transferred, commissioners directed to contract with third party to administer grant programs, commissioner directed to contract with third party to review appropriations for IT projects, and performance-based budgeting provided.
Mental and behavioral health care provisions modified including service standards, adult and child mental health services grants, substance use disorder services, supportive housing, and provider certification and reimbursement; reports required; and money appropriated.
Disability services, aging services, substance use disorder services, and priority admissions and civil commitment provisions modified; Direct Care and Treatment executive board, human services response contingency account, Homelessness and Housing Support Office, workgroups, and councils established; studies and reports required; rulemaking provided; and money appropriated.