Minnesota Senate Bill SF3732

Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/15/24
• Refer: 2/15/24

Caption

Indirect billing for individualized home supports authorization

Impact

The bill's introduction reflects a shift in how individualized home support services are structured and billed in Minnesota. By allowing indirect billing, it seeks to enhance access to services while ensuring that individuals can maintain their autonomy and live independently in their homes. The proposed changes could potentially lead to increased flexibility in service provision and improved outcomes for recipients who may have difficulty engaging in direct service interactions due to various circumstances.

Summary

SF3732 is a legislative bill aimed at authorizing indirect billing for individualized home supports in Minnesota's human services sector. Specifically, the bill mandates the commissioner of human services to submit amendments to the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services by December 1, 2024, which will enable providers to bill for various services that do not require direct contact with the service recipients. These services may include coordinating transportation, healthcare access, legal support, and other community living supports necessary for maintaining the recipients' independence.

Contention

While the bill aims to improve support for individuals requiring home-based services, there may be concerns regarding quality control and oversight of the services delivered through indirect billing. Stakeholders may question how the effectiveness of services without direct contact will be measured, and whether the proposed amendments will adequately safeguard recipients' interests. Moreover, some legislators and advocacy groups may argue that more robust guidelines and accountability measures are needed to ensure that indirect services meet the necessary standards for quality and accessibility.