McKee’s budget includes about $25 million in direct cuts to hospitals, along with an additional tax increase of almost $17 million, according to HARI. The reductions include a $10 million cut in the statutory Medicaid rate increase and an $18.3 million cut in “Upper Payment Limit” payments that are made to hospitals. Along with this, hospitals are facing a $16.9 million increase in taxes because of manipulation of how they are calculated.
“These cuts will have real consequences for Rhode Islanders, who are already facing long wait times for appointments, with many residents unable to see the specialists they need. This budget proposal will only add more barriers and delays in care across the state.”
