Glad to join Representative Spears for her monthly chats at Caf Bar in Charlestown. At the last chat, we talked about the state budget which raises Medicaid reimbursement rates. Low reimbursement rates is one of the reasons why it’s harder to attract and retain healthcare providers here, but it’s not just Medicaid. Medicare rates are also lower in RI because it’s tied to a federal formula that includes the cost of living. Because the cost of living is higher in our neighboring states, the reimbursement rates are higher there too. The problem in New England, of course, is that doctors can live in Rhode Island and work in CT or MA because they get paid more working across state lines. Since it’s a federal formula, you can reach out to our Congressmembers with any concerns.