The bill establishes the Office of Patient Protection in Minnesota, which is tasked with assisting consumers regarding access and quality of health care, as well as advising the legislature on strategies to reduce health care spending and improve consumer experiences. The office will be led by a director appointed by the governor, who will oversee its operations and ensure it fulfills its responsibilities. The office is designed to be a distinct entity, separate from other state agencies, and will not engage in providing health care or health insurance.
The responsibilities of the Office of Patient Protection include implementing procedures to assist consumers facing issues such as restrictions on patient choice and denials of service, collaborating with consumer assistance programs, collecting and disseminating information on health plan quality and patient satisfaction, and reporting annually to the legislature on its activities and recommendations for policy improvements. The bill aims to enhance consumer protection and streamline the health care experience for Minnesotans.