Bill > HF1157

This bill establishes a legal framework for direct primary care service agreements in Minnesota, creating a new model for healthcare delivery that operates outside traditional health insurance. The bill defines a direct primary care service agreement as a written contract between a primary care provider and a patient, where the patient pays a monthly fee for direct access to primary care services. The agreement must be in writing, specify the services covered, allow either party to terminate with notice, and clearly state that it is not health insurance. Key provisions include prohibiting providers from declining patients based on health status, requiring transparent fee structures that do not vary by patient health, and mandating that providers maintain appropriate financial records. The bill emphasizes that these agreements are not insurance products and are not subject to traditional insurance regulations. Providers are prohibited from submitting claims to health insurance companies for services covered under the direct agreement, and they must provide clear, non-deceptive information about the terms of the agreement. The legislation also includes consumer protections, such as requiring advance notice of fee changes and mandating refunds for unused prepaid services. Violations of these provisions can result in disciplinary action against the healthcare provider.

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https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&f=HF1157&ssn=0&y=2025