The proposed bill establishes the Rhode Island Comprehensive Health Insurance Program (RICHIP), a universal, comprehensive, and affordable single-payer healthcare insurance program aimed at providing health insurance to all residents of Rhode Island. It seeks to address the shortcomings of the current multi-payer system, which has resulted in a significant number of individuals being uninsured or underinsured.

The bill outlines the creation of an independent state agency to oversee RICHIP, which will be funded by consolidating existing government and private payments into a more efficient system that replaces high premiums, co-pays, deductibles, and costs in excess of caps with lower progressive taxes. Key provisions include the establishment of a RICHIP board to manage benefits and reimbursements, coordination with federal healthcare programs, and the creation of an integrated healthcare database for planning and quality assurance.

The bill also includes legislative findings that highlight the need for reform in the healthcare system, citing issues such as rising healthcare costs, systemic inequities, and the inefficiencies of the current multi-payer system. It emphasizes that healthcare is a human right and outlines the intent to provide comprehensive coverage that includes a wide range of medically necessary services.

Additionally, the bill introduces significant reforms to Medicaid and healthcare delivery systems, including changes to reimbursement methodologies for hospitals and nursing facilities, and the expansion of Medicaid eligibility for certain populations. It mandates that all payments for healthcare services will be made directly by the state starting July 1, 2029, and prohibits new contracts with managed care entities after July 1, 2025.

The legislation emphasizes consumer empowerment, personal responsibility, and community-based care solutions, while proposing substantial investments in healthcare infrastructure, including funding for group homes and a medical school. Overall, the bill aims to enhance healthcare access, improve service quality, and ensure financial accountability within Rhode Island's healthcare system. The act will take effect upon passage, but the RICHIP program will not commence until necessary waivers are obtained and the final financing proposal is approved by the General Assembly.

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