This bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 256B.0625, subdivision 54, to modify reimbursement rates for services provided by licensed birth centers under the medical assistance program. Currently, facility services at birth centers are reimbursed at the lower of billed charges or 70 percent of the statewide average payment rate for hospitals for uncomplicated vaginal births. The bill introduces new provisions that will take effect on January 1, 2027, or upon federal approval, which will increase these reimbursement rates to 100 percent of the hospital facility fee cost for uncomplicated vaginal births and for services provided to newborns.

Additionally, the bill mandates that birth center providers be reimbursed for the full range of maternity care services within their scope of practice, regardless of the place of service, starting January 1, 2027, or upon federal approval. The commissioner is tasked with reviewing current reimbursement practices and consulting with licensed birth centers to ensure comprehensive maternal health services are adequately reimbursed. The bill also includes expiration clauses for certain provisions, indicating a transition to the new reimbursement structure.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 256B.0625