The bill amends various sections of the General Laws to enhance immunization coverage in Rhode Island. It establishes that the Department of Health will include routine childhood and adult immunization vaccines as recommended by the Advisory Committee for Immunization Practices (ACIP) or as determined by the director of the Department of Health to be necessary to protect public health. Additionally, it mandates the formation of an advisory committee to review immunization recommendations and proposals, with a diverse membership that includes healthcare professionals and representatives from relevant industries.

Commencing January 1, 2027, the bill requires all individual or group medical service contracts, hospital or medical expense insurance policies, and the medical assistance program to provide coverage for vaccinations recommended by the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) without any cost-sharing. This requirement extends to Medicaid beneficiaries, whether enrolled in fee-for-service or managed care, and to state employee health benefit programs. The bill aims to ensure comprehensive access to vaccinations across various insurance plans, thereby eliminating financial barriers to receiving necessary vaccinations.

Statutes affected:
7625: 23-1-44