05-R 209

2005 -- H 6411

Enacted 04/27/05

H O U S E R E S O L U T I O N

URGING UNITEDHEALTHCARE AND BLUE CROSS & BLUE SHIELD OF RHODE

ISLAND TO REIMBURSE RHODE ISLAND PHYSICIANS AT A RATE OF 151% OF

MEDICARE'S REIMBURSEMENT LEVELS

Introduced By: Representatives Carter, and Costantino

Date Introduced: April 27, 2005

     WHEREAS, Studies examining the outlook for an adequate physician workforce in

Rhode Island for the next decade reveal the potential for a serious reduction in the availability of

sufficient medical care and services for Rhode Islanders; and

     WHEREAS, Sharp increases in liability and malpractice insurance and low

reimbursement rates and levels to physicians for services rendered are considered to be the

topmost reasons for the decrease in Rhode Island’s ability to attract and retain an adequate

physician workforce; and

     WHEREAS, Article 1 of Rhode Island’s Constitution states “All free governments are

instituted for the protection, safety, and happiness of the people.” An ample physician workforce

is undoubtedly a necessity for the health and well being of all our citizens and for Rhode Island’s

future; now, therefore be it

     RESOLVED, That this House of Representatives of the State of Rhode Island and

Providence Plantations hereby urges UnitedHealthcare and Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode

Island to increase physicians’ reimbursement to one hundred and fifty-one (151%) of Medicare’s

reimbursement amounts; and be it further

     RESOLVED, That the Secretary of State be and he hereby is authorized and directed to

transmit duly certified copies of this resolution to UnitedHealthcare of Rhode Island and the

Chairman of the Board for Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island.

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LC03159

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