This bill amends the Rhode Island Health Care Reform Act of 2004 to give the health insurance commissioner new powers and duties. The commissioner will be required to conduct quarterly public meetings to discuss health insurance rates, services, and operations. They will also be responsible for making recommendations to the governor and legislature regarding healthcare insurance and regulations. The commissioner will establish an advisory council to obtain information and present concerns of consumers, businesses, and medical providers.

The bill also establishes a subcommittee of the advisory council called the professional-work group. This subcommittee will provide information on fee schedules, standardized provider application processes, and other healthcare-related topics. The bill also requires the commissioner to enforce certain provisions of the law and analyze the impact of changing rating guidelines and merging health insurance markets.

Overall, this bill proposes changes to the healthcare system in Rhode Island, including an analysis of the small-group market, the establishment of a workgroup to streamline healthcare administration, improvements to the prior authorization process, and the monitoring of compliance with various healthcare laws. The bill also requires the health insurance commissioner to hire staff and contract with a firm to conduct analyses and reports on social and human service programs.

Statutes affected:
290  SUB A as amended: 42-14.5-3
290  SUB A: 42-14.5-3
290: 42-14.5-3