The resolution addresses the issue of long-term care spending in Rhode Island, which is currently skewed towards institutional care, with spending on home- and community-based services below the national average. The State recognizes the need to shift this spending towards community supports, as it is in the best interests of residents, communities, the State budget, and the economy. It is noted that the average cost of a long-term skilled nursing facility stay to Rhode Island's Medicaid program exceeds $65,000, and research indicates that older adults have better health and quality of life outcomes when they can live in their homes. Additionally, many patients prefer to return home rather than stay in skilled nursing facilities for extended periods.

The resolution highlights the success of the Hospital Care Transitions Initiative (HCTI), a program that has been operating for three years, engaging over 1,000 patients, and supporting around 50 discharges per month, with 75% of patients successfully returning home. HCTI, which is a partnership between the Rhode Island Executive Office of Health and Human Services and RIPIN, embeds certified community health workers in discharge teams at three hospitals. The program aims to prevent extended stays in skilled nursing facilities, improve health outcomes, honor patient preferences, and reduce Medicaid expenditures. Consequently, the resolution proposes an appropriation of $250,000 to RIPIN for the fiscal year 2024-2025 to continue the operation of HCTI, with the expectation that these funds will be matched by federal Medicaid funds. The state controller is authorized to draw orders for the payment of this sum upon receipt of properly authenticated vouchers.