House File 3704 Summary

• Modifies the definition of essential community providers in Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 62Q.19 to clarify criteria for commissioner designation of providers serving uninsured persons, underserved populations, and high-risk populations.

• Establishes specific designation criteria including nonprofit status, tax-exempt status, sliding fee schedules based on poverty income guidelines, and non-restriction of services based on financial limitations.

• Adds five new categories of eligible providers: former state hospitals specializing in cerebral palsy, spina bifida, epilepsy, closed head injuries, and orthopedic problems; and sole community hospitals meeting specified federal regulations and financial loss requirements with 40 or fewer licensed beds.

• Requires the commissioner to publish all applicant names in the State Register and allow 30 days for public comment before making any designation.

• Grants the commissioner enforcement authority to order compliance changes, suspend, modify, or revoke designations for violations, and requires health plan companies to implement compliance changes and compensate providers for damages caused by noncompliance.