Here’s what’s happening in health care in Rhode Island:

  • PRESCRIPTION DATABASE: The Rhode Island Department of Health says 100% of prescribing health care providers, including doctors and nurses, have signed up to use the state’s online prescription monitoring database. That database is designed to help prescribers track a patient’s use of opioids and other addictive medications, enabling them to spot troubling behavior such as using multiple pharmacies and doctors. While 100% may be registered and able to use the database, only a small percentage actually check it. The state’s health agency has been trying to encourage more doctors to use the tool, and now requires prescribers to register as soon as they’re licensed to prescribe medications like opioids.
  • CHILD CARE: Child care programs in Rhode Island must meet updated safety and health requirements, according to new federal regulations. According to state officials, the Department of Children, Youth, and Families and the Department of Human Services will required updated background checks for employees every five years. The agencies already require comprehensive background checks for all new licensed providers and staff. The agencies will also require pre-employment training for every staff member in a child care setting that receives federal funding, such as DCYF and DHS programs. More information here.
  • NEIGHBORHOOD HEALTH PLAN: The Providence Journal reports that Neighborhood Health Plan of Rhode Island has sent about 10% of its subscribers nearly $2 million dollars in rebates on the premiums they paid last year. Under Obamacare rules, insurers must spend 80% of their premiums each year on health care services, leaving 20% for salaries and other administrative expenses. In 2015, Neighborhood did not hit that target. So they have to refund premiums in the amount by which they missed the target (about 3.5%). The rebate recipients are people who bought health plans on HealthSource RI, the state’s online health insurance marketplace. Neighborhood says part of the reason for missing the target was the uncertainties involved in estimating expenses in the first years of the new marketplace. 
  • DCYF DIRECTOR: The Executive Office of Health and Human Services will hold public listening sessions about its search for a new Department of Children, Youth, and Families director. The next session is tomorrow (Wednesday), October 5, from 4:30 – 6 pm at Child and Family Service in Providence.
  • FLU SEASON: It’s that time of year again. If you want to get a flu shot, there are plenty of opportunities throughout the state. Here’s one: VNA of Care New England will hold public flu clinics across the state this month and next. Click here for dates and locations.