Bill > H5205

This bill aims to provide continuous health coverage for children up to age three who are enrolled in RIte Track/RIte Care (Rhode Island's Medicaid program for children and low-income families). The legislation is based on findings that stable health coverage is crucial for young children's healthcare, allowing them to receive preventive care, vaccinations, screenings, and treatment for both acute and chronic conditions without interruption. The bill addresses the problem of "churn," where children can lose health coverage due to administrative barriers during yearly eligibility redeterminations, even though they may quickly requalify. By ensuring continuous eligibility until the child's third birthday, the bill seeks to promote health equity, particularly for low-income children and children of color. The legislation requires the executive office of health and human services to seek necessary amendments to the state's Medicaid waiver to implement this continuous coverage. The bill notes that several other states have already implemented similar continuous coverage policies for young children, ranging from ages three to six. The changes will automatically take effect upon passage of the legislation, providing a straightforward mechanism to maintain health insurance coverage for young children in Rhode Island.

Budget and Finance

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