Rhode Island House Bill H5790

Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/26/25
• Refer: 2/26/25

Caption

JOINT RESOLUTION MAKING AN APPROPRIATION OF $90,000,000 TO THE RHODE ISLAND EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES TO SUPPORT PHYSICIAN REIMBURSEMENT RATE INCREASES IN THE RHODE ISLAND MEDICAID PROGRAM (Authorizes the appropriation of the sum of $90,000,000 to the Rhode Island Executive Office of Health and Human Services to be invested in increasing reimbursement rates for all physicians and advanced practice providers.)

Impact

The bill's introduction comes amidst reports that a significant number of Rhode Island voters have experienced difficulties with healthcare access, including scheduling appointments with specialists. The proposed increase in funding for physician reimbursement aims to address these issues by making it more attractive for healthcare professionals to practice in Rhode Island. The bill suggests that higher reimbursement rates could lead to better healthcare access, improved patient outcomes, and potentially lower long-term healthcare costs by reducing avoidable hospitalizations.

Summary

House Bill 5790 is a joint resolution that seeks to appropriate $90 million to the Rhode Island Executive Office of Health and Human Services. The primary objective of this appropriation is to increase reimbursement rates for physicians and advanced practice providers within the state's Medicaid program. This initiative is seen as vital for enhancing the overall quality and accessibility of healthcare services in Rhode Island, especially in light of the state's ongoing challenges in healthcare access related to current reimbursement rates.

Contention

While Bill H5790 seeks to enhance healthcare delivery, there may be discussions among legislators regarding the best allocation of state funds, particularly within current fiscal constraints. Debates may arise over the prioritization of this appropriation versus other essential areas of state funding. Nevertheless, the imperative for adequately addressing healthcare provider compensation appears to garner support from a wide range of stakeholders, motivated by the pressing need to improve healthcare access and outcomes in Rhode Island.