This bill mandates the commissioner of human services to establish a directed pharmacy dispensing payment aimed at enhancing access to pharmaceutical services, particularly in rural and underserved areas of Minnesota. The new provision, added as subdivision 6i to Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 256B.69, stipulates a payment of $4.50 per filled prescription to eligible outpatient retail pharmacies. These pharmacies must meet specific criteria, including being located in medically underserved areas or sharing ownership with a limited number of other pharmacies. The bill ensures that this payment is supplementary and does not replace existing dispensing fees.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions for monitoring the impact of these payments on access to pharmaceutical services and outlines the process for pharmacies to receive the directed payments, including the requirement to submit an attestation form to the commissioner. It also specifies that if federal approval for this subdivision is not obtained, adjustments will be made to capitation rates for managed care plans, and the subdivision will expire. The bill appropriates funds from the general fund for fiscal years 2026 and 2027 to support these payments, with an effective date set for July 1, 2025, or upon federal approval, whichever comes later.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 256B.69