MN HF2715

Creates a critical access nursing facility designation administered by the commissioner of human services in consultation with the commissioner of health, granted on a competitive basis within appropriated funds.

Nursing facilities submit proposals every two years; selection criteria are designed to preserve access in isolated areas, rebalance long-term care, and improve quality.

Designated facilities receive five benefits: partial rebasing of operating payment rates (60% new rate, 40% old rate), enhanced leave day payments (60% of total payment rate when occupancy exceeds 90%), ability to jointly employ a director of nursing, reduced minimum thresholds (40% of standard amounts), and quality-based rate limits beginning October 1, 2014.

Designation lasts two years, after which benefits are removed; facilities may apply for continued designation.

Appropriates $2,000,000 in fiscal year 2013 from the general fund for critical access nursing facilities, with this amount ongoing and added to the base budget.