The bill establishes the Rhode Island Comprehensive Health Insurance Program (RICHIP), a universal, comprehensive, and affordable single-payer health insurance system designed to provide coverage to all Rhode Islanders. It aims to address the inadequacies of the current multi-payer system, which has resulted in a significant number of residents being uninsured or underinsured. The program will be funded by consolidating government and private payments, replacing high premiums and out-of-pocket costs with lower progressive taxes.

Key provisions of the bill include the creation of a RICHIP board responsible for overseeing the benefits package and budget proposals, as well as coordinating with state and federal healthcare programs. The bill establishes a comprehensive coverage framework that aligns with federal standards, ensuring that all medically necessary services are covered.

Additionally, the bill introduces significant amendments to existing healthcare laws, including the establishment of a new payment methodology for Medicaid services, the creation of a RICHIP trust fund, and the introduction of a six percent tax on Medicaid payments received by insurance companies. It outlines the responsibilities of the director in managing the program, ensuring compliance with state and federal laws, and implementing standardized claims and reporting procedures.

The legislation emphasizes the need for transparency in healthcare administration, consumer protections, and the integration of mental health services with primary care. It also includes provisions for the development of an integrated healthcare database for planning and quality assurance, as well as procedures for determining eligibility, enrollment, disenrollment, and disqualification from RICHIP. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance healthcare access, improve health outcomes, and streamline administrative processes within Rhode Island's healthcare system.

Statutes affected:
346: 27-34.3-7, 27-66-24, 28-57-5, 40-8.4-13, 42-12.3-14, 44-17-1, 44-51-3