Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

Minnesota Senate Bill SF3351

Introduced
5/20/23  
Refer
5/20/23  

Caption

Coverage requirement for orthotic and prosthetic devices

Impact

The proposed bill is expected to significantly impact healthcare accessibility for individuals who require orthotic and prosthetic devices. By mandating that health plans include coverage for devices deemed medically necessary by licensed practitioners, the bill will improve the capacity for insurers to respond to individual health needs. This change is anticipated to reduce the financial burden on patients with disabilities by ensuring they receive the necessary equipment to maintain their functional independence and improve their quality of life.

Summary

SF3351 is a legislative proposal aimed at enhancing coverage requirements for orthotic and prosthetic devices in Minnesota. The bill seeks to amend existing state laws to ensure that health plans provide comprehensive coverage for these devices, including necessary supplies and services. This bill defines the standards for medical necessity and makes it clear that health plans cannot deny coverage based solely on an enrollee's disability. The effective date for the proposed changes is set for January 1, 2025, allowing health plans to adapt to the new requirements.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment surrounding SF3351 is largely positive, especially among disability advocacy groups and individuals requiring prosthetic and orthotic support. Supporters believe that increased insurance coverage will enable better access to essential medical devices, which can facilitate independence and integration into society. However, there may be concerns among some insurance stakeholders regarding the potential costs imposed by mandatory coverage provisions, creating a divide in opinions depending on the stakeholders involved.

Contention

Despite the positive outlook, there may be points of contention related to the implementation of this coverage requirement. Some stakeholders might raise concerns about the potential for increased premiums or restricted access to certain types of services due to the financial implications for health plans. Issues related to the precise definition of 'medical necessity' and the equitable provision of services across diverse patient needs may also provoke debate as the bill progresses through the legislative process.

Companion Bills

MN HF3339

Similar To Orthotic and prosthetic device coverage required, and rulemaking authorized.

Previously Filed As

MN HF3339

Orthotic and prosthetic device coverage required, and rulemaking authorized.

MN SB4

Prosthetists and Orthotists Board, orthosis, further defined to include custom-fitted orthosis, off-the-shelf orthotic device further defined, Sec. 34-25A-3 am'd.

MN HB22

Prosthetists and Orthotists Board, orthosis, further defined to include custom-fitted orthosis, off-the-shelf orthotic device further defined, Sec. 34-25A-3 am'd.

MN H1003

Coverage for Orthotics and Prosthetics Services

MN HB1391

In casualty insurance, providing for reimbursement for custom-fabricated devices, custom-fitted devices, orthosis, orthotics, over-the-counter prostheses, orthoses and pedorthic devices, prefabricated orthoses, prostheses, prosthetics and components of such devices.

MN HB2302

Insurance coverage; prosthetics; orthotics

MN SB265

Insurance; health benefit policy coverage for medically necessary orthotic devices and prosthetic devices; require

MN HB713

AN ACT relating to coverage for prosthetics and orthotics.

MN HB87

Insurance; require health benefit policy coverage for medically necessary orthotic and prosthetic devices and their materials and components

MN SB3977

Medicare Orthotics and Prosthetics Patient-Centered Care Act

Similar Bills

MN HF3339

Orthotic and prosthetic device coverage required, and rulemaking authorized.

MN SF1963

Self-measured blood pressure monitoring devices coverage requirement provision

MN HF2320

Coverage for self-measured blood pressure monitoring devices required.

MN SF1967

Medical assistance requirement to cover seizure detection devices

MN HF2077

Medical assistance required to cover seizure detection devices.

MN SF1101

Augmentative and alternative communication systems coverage requirement provision and appropriation

MN SF1831

Coverage requirement for self-measured blood pressure monitoring devices

MN HF2750

Enteral nutrition and supplies payment methodology modified.