RI S2816

Appropriates $118,422 in state general revenue to the Rhode Island Parent Information Network (RIPIN) for fiscal year 2026-2027 to continue the Medicare-Medicaid Dual Ombudsman Program, with expected matching of $118,422 in federal Medicaid funds for a total of $236,844

The Dual Ombudsman Program helps approximately 40,000 dual-eligible Rhode Islanders (enrolled in both Medicare and Medicaid) navigate complex enrollment rules, claim denials, prior authorization issues, and access to care challenges

The program served 467 clients with 4,705 individual interactions in 2025, achieved a 90% client satisfaction rate, and has saved clients more than $2.1 million in health care costs since January 2018

The Governor's proposed FY 2026-2027 budget would terminate funding for the program, which would coincide with major transitions in Rhode Island's dual-eligible managed care delivery system following CMS's withdrawal of support for the Medicare-Medicaid Plan on December 31, 2025

The Office of the Health Insurance Commissioner would administer the funds, with the State Controller authorized to draw payments from the general treasury