ST. PAUL – State Rep. Paul Anderson, R-Starbuck, said a more practical approach is needed after several non-emergency medical transportation providers had their enrollment terminated, potentially disrupting transportation services for vulnerable Minnesotans.
Anderson said the issue stems from a federal provider recertification requirement that carried a June 1 deadline. Transportation providers across Minnesota were required to submit documentation and undergo review to maintain enrollment in Minnesota Health Care Programs. While many providers complied with the requirements and submitted requested materials, some are now reporting that their status has been changed to “terminated” while they continue waiting for the Minnesota Department of Human Services to complete its review process.
“It is unfortunate that patients who rely on these services to access healthcare find themselves at the center of this issue and are the ones impacted most,” Anderson said. “When transportation options disappear, many Minnesotans in rural communities find it difficult to obtain the treatments and care they need and end up suffering.”
Anderson said one provider reported that DHS conducted a site visit and later terminated its enrollment over what appears to be a disagreement regarding whether a scheduling employee should have been listed as a management official. According to the provider, Anderson said, all requested information was supplied and the issue could have been resolved through a simple correction process.
“The state should apply some common sense when administrative disputes put patient transportation at risk,” Anderson said. “Providers ought to have a reasonable opportunity to address compliance issues before the most severe enforcement action is taken and services vulnerable Minnesotans need are eliminated.”
Anderson said he encourages DHS to collaborate with providers to resolve outstanding compliance issues and ensure patients do not experience avoidable disruptions in care while appeals and reviews are underway.
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