HOUSE RESOLUTION RESPECTFULLY URGING THE UNITED STATES CONGRESS TO PROTECT PATIENTS AND TRADITIONAL MEDICARE FROM MEDICARE ADVANTAGE

Plain-English Summary

This is a resolution from the Rhode Island House of Representatives urging the U.S. Congress to take action to protect traditional Medicare and the patients who rely on it from what the resolution describes as problems caused by Medicare Advantage plans. Unlike a regular law, a resolution like this does not create new rules or spend money — it is essentially a formal statement expressing the Rhode Island legislature's position and asking federal lawmakers to act.

Medicare Advantage (sometimes called Part C) is a type of Medicare coverage offered by private insurance companies as an alternative to traditional, government-run Medicare. This resolution expresses concern that Medicare Advantage plans may be harming patients — for example, through claim denials, limited provider networks, or other practices — and that the growth of these private plans could weaken the traditional Medicare program that millions of Americans depend on.

The resolution primarily affects seniors and people with disabilities who are enrolled in Medicare, particularly those in Rhode Island. It calls on members of Congress to consider new policies or protections that would safeguard both the option to use traditional Medicare and the rights of patients within Medicare Advantage plans.

As of the most recent update, the bill has been referred to the House Health & Human Services Committee, where it was scheduled for hearings but has been held for further study. Because this is a non-binding resolution, it carries no legal force on its own — its purpose is to send a message from Rhode Island's legislature to federal policymakers.