The bill amends Section 42-7.2-5 of the General Laws to enhance the responsibilities of the Secretary of the Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS) in overseeing the state's healthcare system. Key changes include replacing the term "Coordinate" with "Oversee and direct" in relation to administering healthcare benefits, human services, and systems of care. The bill introduces new duties for the Secretary, such as promoting fiscal integrity, transparency, and accountability in the state's healthcare system.

The bill establishes a new chapter focused on healthcare entity fiscal integrity, transparency, and accountability, which mandates that various healthcare entities, including hospitals, nursing facilities, federally qualified community health centers, and certified community behavioral health clinics, submit quarterly financial reports to the Secretary. These reports must include detailed financial information and are required to be submitted no later than sixty business days after the end of each quarter.

The Secretary is responsible for reviewing these reports to assess the financial status and capacity of the reporting covered entities. If financial risks or imminent financial jeopardy are identified, the Secretary is authorized to require corrective action plans and may notify the entities of their obligations to cooperate. The bill clarifies that no state agency is obligated to provide financial assistance to entities found to be in financial risk or imminent financial jeopardy.

Additionally, the Secretary is authorized to pursue funding opportunities to stabilize entities in imminent jeopardy and promote fiscal integrity in the healthcare system. The act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
3253: 42-7.2-5