Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S2363

Introduced
1/29/26  
Introduced
1/30/26  
Refer
1/29/26  

Caption

Establishes the Medicaid fee-for-service reimbursement rates set by the general assembly as the rate floor for Medicaid managed care by home care, home nursing care and hospice providers.

Impact

The expected impact of S2363 on state laws is substantial, particularly in how Medicaid-funded services are structured and financed in Rhode Island. By establishing fee-for-service rates as a minimum for managed care, the bill aims to create equity in reimbursement across different service providers. This change is intended to incentivize care models that keep patients in community settings rather than institutional ones, ultimately promoting better health outcomes and a more sustainable healthcare system. Additionally, it seeks to eliminate unnecessary administrative burdens that currently plague home care providers.

Summary

S2363, titled 'Establishes the Medicaid fee-for-service reimbursement rates set by the general assembly as the rate floor for Medicaid managed care by home care, home nursing care and hospice providers,' aims to reform Rhode Island's long-term care financing system. The bill mandates that a significant proportion of Medicaid funding be allocated towards home- and community-based services, prioritizing such models over institutional care. This legislation is part of a broader initiative to address the increasing demand for home-care services due to the aging population and the rising need for support for adults with disabilities.

Contention

Despite the benefits proposed by S2363, there are notable points of contention. Some stakeholders raise concerns about the potential for increased bureaucracy and complexity surrounding eligibility determination for services, which might delay access to care for vulnerable populations. Additionally, critics of the bill argue that while the focus on community care is commendable, the practical implementation of these changes may lead to disparities in service delivery, particularly in rural areas where resources are limited. Ensuring adequate funding for training and support for direct-care workers is also a contentious issue, as the bill attempts to address staffing shortages in the home-care industry.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S0255

Establishes Medicaid fee-for-service reimbursement rates set by the general assembly as the rate floor for Medicaid managed care by home care, home nursing care and hospice providers licensed by the DOH and continue the EEOHH.

RI H5774

Establishes Medicaid fee-for-service reimbursement rates set by the general assembly as the rate floor for Medicaid managed care by home care, home nursing care and hospice providers licensed by the DOH and continue the EEOHH.

RI H6289

Raises the per diem rate by thirteen percent (13%) for Medicaid reimbursement for Tier C services provide by assisted living residence beginning January 1, 2026.

RI H6373

Requires the executive office of health and human services to increase Medicaid payment rates for primary care services furnished by primary care providers to be commensurate with Medicare rates.

RI H5986

Reduces the appropriation to Medicaid managed care in fiscal year 2025-2026 in order to increase the rates for Medicaid nursing facilities.

RI S0793

Increases individual, group, and Medicaid insurance rates of reimbursement for ambulance and wheelchair van services to be equal to reimbursement rates provided by Medicare for the same medical services.

RI H5772

Increases individual, group, and Medicaid insurance rates of reimbursement for ambulance and wheelchair van services to be equal to reimbursement rates provided by Medicare for the same medical services.

RI S0696

Authorizes an increase in resource eligibility limits for persons with long-term-care needs who reside at home and requires semi-annual reports from Medicaid certified assisted living facilities and adult day service providers to the EOHHS.

RI H6074

Authorizes an increase in resource eligibility limits for persons with long-term-care needs who reside at home and requires semi-annual reports from Medicaid certified assisted living facilities and adult day service providers to the EOHHS.

RI S0427

Requires the EOHHS to amend the state Medicaid plan and secure sufficient state general revenue to increase Medicaid payment rates to an amount equal to one hundred thirty percent (130%) of Medicare rates for outpatient clinical pediatric services.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.