Minnesota House Bill HF2146

Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/21/23
• Refer: 2/21/23

Caption

Certification and practice requirements modified for community emergency medical technicians.

Impact

If enacted, HF2146 would amend existing Minnesota statutes to encompass the expanded roles of CEMTs within the health care system. This legislation could significantly impact how community emergency medical services operate, particularly in rural areas where these providers often play a crucial role. CEMTs would be authorized to provide services that align with a patient's care plan and maintain coordination with other health care providers, enhancing the continuity of care post-discharge from hospitals or nursing facilities.

Summary

House File 2146 seeks to modify the certification and practice requirements for Community Emergency Medical Technicians (CEMTs) in Minnesota. The bill emphasizes enhancing the skills and roles of CEMTs, allowing them to engage more effectively in providing health care services. To become certified, individuals must meet specific criteria, including holding current EMT or AEMT certification and completing designated educational programs. The bill aims to ensure that CEMTs are well-prepared to offer a range of medical assistance, including health assessments, chronic disease monitoring, and post-discharge patient care.

Contention

Notable points of discussion surrounding HF2146 include the appropriateness of the expanded role for CEMTs and the funding mechanisms for the proposed services. Proponents argue that empowering CEMTs can lead to better health outcomes and more efficient use of medical resources, particularly during the transition care phase. However, concerns have been raised regarding oversight, training adequacy, and ensuring that CEMTs do not overstep their authority, which could potentially compromise patient safety or dilute the responsibilities traditionally assigned to higher-trained medical professionals.