Minnesota Senate Bill SF2518

Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/6/23
• Refer: 3/6/23
• Refer: 2/19/24

Caption

Health plan companies establishment of an appeal process for providers to access if the provider's contract is terminated for cause requirement; health plan company termination of a provider's contract without cause prohibition

Impact

The proposed legislation amends existing laws in Minnesota Statutes to define the circumstances under which health plan companies can terminate provider contracts. If enacted, the bill would strengthen patients' rights as it mandates health plans to notify both providers and patients about their rights to continuity of care when a contract is non-renewed or terminated. The protection extends for a period of up to 120 days for patients undergoing treatment for specific serious conditions, thereby prioritizing patient care and stability during transitions between providers.

Summary

SF2518 aims to establish a more robust framework for the relationship between health plan companies and healthcare providers by mandating an appeal process for providers whose contracts are terminated for cause. This ensures that providers have recourse when faced with termination, promoting fair treatment and accountability among health plan companies. Furthermore, the bill prohibits the termination of provider contracts without cause, thus safeguarding clinicians from arbitrary decisions by health plan companies and ensuring continuity of care for patients.

Contention

Debates surrounding SF2518 have focused on balancing the interests of health plan companies with the needs and rights of providers and patients. Supporters argue that such legislation is necessary to prevent the arbitrary termination of providers, thereby ensuring patients have access to consistent care. However, some stakeholders have raised concerns over potential implications for health plan companies, arguing that prohibiting terminations without cause could lead to increased costs for insurance providers and potentially higher premiums for enrollees.