SENATE 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 State Senate that asks the U.S. Congress to take action to protect patients who use traditional Medicare (also known as "Original Medicare") from what the resolution describes as problems caused by Medicare Advantage plans. A resolution like this is not a law — it is an official statement or request that expresses the opinion of the Rhode Island Senate and urges another government body (in this case, the federal Congress) to act.

Medicare Advantage plans are private insurance plans that serve as an alternative to traditional Medicare, and millions of Americans are enrolled in both types of coverage. This resolution essentially takes the position that traditional Medicare needs stronger protections and that patients — particularly seniors and people with disabilities who rely on Medicare — should be safeguarded from potential harms associated with Medicare Advantage, such as claim denials or coverage limitations. The resolution is asking federal lawmakers to step in and address these concerns.

This resolution would primarily affect Rhode Island residents who are on Medicare, including those enrolled in traditional Medicare and those in Medicare Advantage plans. However, since it is directed at the U.S. Congress, any changes that result would potentially affect Medicare enrollees across the entire country. It is important to note that this resolution has no binding legal force on its own — it is simply Rhode Island's Senate putting its concerns on record and formally calling on federal lawmakers to act.