This bill amends various sections of the General Laws related to health and safety, specifically focusing on immunization programs and insurance coverage for vaccinations. It establishes that the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) will include routine childhood and adult immunization vaccines in its program, as determined by the director of the department to be necessary to protect public health. The bill mandates the creation of an advisory committee to review immunization recommendations and assess vaccine costs, with the committee's recommendations to be publicly posted.

Furthermore, the bill requires that, starting January 1, 2027, all individual or group medical service contracts and insurance policies in Rhode Island provide coverage for vaccinations recommended by RIDOH without any cost-sharing. This requirement extends to the medical assistance program, ensuring that all Medicaid beneficiaries receive the necessary vaccinations without additional financial burden. Additionally, Medicaid managed care organizations under contract with the executive office of health and human services are also mandated to provide coverage for these vaccinations without cost-sharing, to the extent permitted under federal law. The bill emphasizes the importance of immunization in public health and aims to enhance access to vaccines for all residents.

Statutes affected:
2379: 23-1-44
2379  SUB A: 23-1-44, 23-101-2