The state contracts with private HMOs to provide a comprehensive set of benefits for a fixed rate. The state, like any other contractor, monitors quality and outcomes. Enrollees are like employees, selecting a plan when they become eligible and having the option to switch every year. Results Expanded access to care. Enrollees have access to over three times as many primary care physicians as they did previously.
All patients select a primary care physician when they become eligible.
Care has been moved out of the emergency room. Expanded Health Insurance. RI leads the country in implementing comprehensive publicly funded health insurance. There was significant joint planning and stakeholder surveying prior to start-up to address real and perceived concerns. Management Changes - Since its implementation, responsibility has been clarified to one state department and the state has hired technical experts to help run much of the program.