The proposed bill mandates unrestricted access to services for the diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment of rare diseases in Minnesota. It introduces a new section, [62Q.451], which prohibits health plan companies from limiting enrollees' choices regarding where they receive care for rare diseases. The bill defines a "rare disease or condition" based on specific criteria, including the number of affected individuals and the nature of the disease. It also outlines provisions for out-of-network services, ensuring that patients who have not yet received a definitive diagnosis can still access necessary care without facing additional financial burdens. Furthermore, health plan companies are required to provide written information about these provisions and train customer service representatives accordingly.

Additionally, the bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2022, section 256B.0625, by adding a subdivision that mandates medical assistance coverage for services related to rare diseases to comply with the new requirements established in section 62Q.451. The effective date for these changes is set for January 1, 2024, applying to health plans offered, issued, or renewed on or after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 256B.0625