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PROVIDENCE, RI – Rhode Island’s healthcare system is facing a critical juncture, according to Attorney General Peter Neronha, who outlined a series of aggressive measures aimed at addressing what he describes as a “spectacular failure.” In a press conference held on Wednesday, Neronha detailed a comprehensive plan encompassing legislative proposals, a potential lawsuit against pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), and the creation of a dedicated health policy agency – all deemed urgently necessary to stabilize and improve the state’s struggling healthcare landscape.

The Attorney General's office has been meticulously investigating the complexities of Rhode Island's healthcare system, uncovering systemic issues that have contributed to rising costs, limited access, and overall dissatisfaction among patients and providers. Neronha emphasized the severity of the situation, stating that the current state of affairs is unsustainable and demands immediate intervention.

Key Components of the Action Plan:

• Legislative Proposals: The AG’s office is working closely with state lawmakers to introduce legislation designed to increase transparency in healthcare pricing, regulate PBM practices, and promote greater competition among healthcare providers. Specific details of these proposals are expected to be released in the coming weeks.
• Lawsuit Against Pharmacy Benefit Managers: A significant portion of Neronha’s announcement focused on the potential for legal action against PBMs. These companies, which manage prescription drug benefits for health insurers, have come under increasing scrutiny for their role in driving up drug costs and limiting access to affordable medications. The lawsuit aims to challenge practices that allegedly prioritize PBM profits over patient well-being. “We believe there is a strong case to be made that these PBMs are acting in a manner that is detrimental to the people of Rhode Island,” Neronha stated.
• New Health Policy Agency: Recognizing the need for a dedicated entity to oversee and coordinate healthcare policy, Neronha proposed the creation of a new state agency focused solely on healthcare issues. This agency would be responsible for monitoring the system's performance, identifying areas for improvement, and developing evidence-based policy recommendations.

Why the Urgent Action?

Rhode Island residents have been grappling with rising healthcare costs and limited access to care for years. High deductibles, narrow networks, and complex billing practices have created significant barriers to accessing necessary medical services. The Attorney General's actions are intended to address these challenges head-on and ensure that all Rhode Islanders have access to affordable, high-quality healthcare.

The announcement has been met with mixed reactions. Healthcare advocates have praised Neronha’s initiative, calling it a much-needed step towards reforming the state’s healthcare system. However, some industry representatives have expressed concerns about the potential impact of the lawsuit and new regulations on healthcare providers and insurers.

The coming months will be crucial as the Attorney General’s office works to advance these proposals and navigate the complex legal and political landscape. The future of Rhode Island's healthcare system hangs in the balance, and the actions taken now will have a profound impact on the health and well-being of the state’s residents.

This is a developing story.