Rhode Island Senate Bill S0793

Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/14/25
• Refer: 3/14/25

Caption

Increases individual, group, and Medicaid insurance rates of reimbursement for ambulance and wheelchair van services to be equal to reimbursement rates provided by Medicare for the same medical services.

Impact

The enactment of S0793 is expected to significantly affect the landscape of healthcare financing in Rhode Island. By aligning insurance reimbursement rates with Medicare standards, the bill hopes to alleviate some of the financial burdens faced by ambulance service providers. This adjustment is particularly important, as ambulance services often operate under tight financial margins, and ensuring they receive fair compensation is critical for maintaining these essential emergency services.

Summary

Bill S0793 proposes to increase the reimbursement rates for ambulance services under individual, group, and Medicaid insurance plans in Rhode Island. Specifically, it mandates that the reimbursement rates must be equal to those set by Medicare for similar medical services, effective from January 1, 2026. The bill aims to enhance the financial viability of ambulance services, ensuring they are adequately compensated for the medical care they provide during emergencies.

Contention

While there is broad support for the bill aimed at improving ambulance service financial stability, there are concerns surrounding the overall impact on insurance premiums. Opponents argue that raising reimbursement rates may subsequently lead to increased costs for insurance providers, which could translate into higher premiums for policyholders. Additionally, there may be discussions about the balance of benefits between ground ambulance and other forms of emergency service transport, such as air and water services, which are excluded from this bill's provisions.