This bill amends Minnesota Statutes to allow insurers to provide explanations of benefits (EOBs) electronically, enhancing the accessibility of this information for health care patients. Specifically, it modifies section 62J.51, subdivision 19a, to clarify that the uniform explanation of benefits can be provided in either a traditional document format or its electronic equivalent as outlined in section 62J.581. Additionally, section 62J.581 is revised to establish standards for the uniform explanation of benefits, including provisions for electronic access.
Key changes include the introduction of a requirement for group purchasers to offer patients a choice between receiving their EOBs in paper, electronic, or both formats. The bill mandates that if patients do not respond to this choice, they will at least receive a paper version of the EOB. Furthermore, it specifies that any electronic version must adhere to the same data elements and definitions as the paper version, ensuring consistency in the information provided. The previous requirement for a paper document is deleted, reflecting the shift towards electronic communication in health care reimbursement processes.
Statutes affected: Introduction: 62J.51, 62J.581