The MMA supports physicians and patients through advocacy on crucial issues affecting the health of Minnesotans and the practice of medicine.
2025 Legislative Priorities
1. Increase MA outpatient reimbursement rates
The Department of Human Services (DHS) recommended in a recent study that reimbursement rates for Medical Assistance (MA) outpatient services be increased to Medicare levels. Currently, reimbursement rates are only 60-70% of Medicare and 30% of commercial payers. The MMA supports paying for the increase through an assessment on managed care organizations, which would maximize federal matching funds. With maximized federal dollars, there will be no cost to the state’s general fund. The managed care organizations will receive the increased payments for increased reimbursements.
2. Limit mid-year formulary changes for prescription drugs
Unexpected drug formulary changes disrupt patient care. When an insurer or pharmacy benefit manager alters the formulary for a drug at any point in a patient’s contract year, it causes unexpected expenses, treatment pauses, and forces patients away from their prescribed medications. Mid-year formulary changes must be prohibited during a contract year for medications a patient is currently using. Additionally, health plans should be required to retain “real-time benefit tools” to inform practitioners immediately whether a prescribed drug is covered.
3. Promote physician well-being and mental health services
Physician and other healthcare professional burnout is at an all-time high, leading to a physician workforce shortage in Minnesota. To reduce the stigma related to burnout and encourage practitioners to get the care they need, the Legislature should fund the implementation of the “Treat Yourself First” campaign.
4. Implement a Registry for POLST Forms
The Legislature directed a work group to study and develop recommendations to implement a statewide registry for Provider Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) forms. We must begin the steps to begin implementing those recommendations so physicians, EMTs, and other providers can access these medical orders when they are needed. Funding for outreach and education regarding a statewide registry is also needed to begin the phased-in implementation of the registry.
5. Continue Coverage for Telehealth Services
Coverage for audio-only telehealth services is set to expire on June 30, 2025. A recent health department study shows that telehealth, including the use of audio-only services, has been a useful tool for both patients and providers across Minnesota. The Legislature must eliminate the sunset to ensure patients and providers can continue to use this effective treatment option.
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2024 Legislative Session in Review
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Key Initiatives
See the full list of MMA Priority issues and find information and resources useful to your practice.