11 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Rhode Island
Last updated on Mar 04, 2023
Summary: The quality of medical care in Rhode Island is generally considered to be on par with the rest of the United States. Rhode Island has a wide range of medical facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and specialty care centers. Emergency services are available 24/7 and can be accessed by calling 911. Ambulance services are also available and can be requested by calling 911.
How are healthcare services Rhode Island?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Rhode Island, they replied:
"Rhode Island offers a wide range of healthcare services to its residents. The state is home to a number of hospitals and medical facilities, including the Rhode Island Hospital in Providence, the Miriam Hospital in Providence, and the Women & Infants Hospital in Providence. These hospitals provide a variety of services, including emergency care, primary care, specialty care, and mental health services. In addition, Rhode Island has a number of community health centers, which provide primary care services to underserved populations. The state also has a number of long-term care facilities, such as nursing homes and assisted living facilities, which provide care for elderly and disabled individuals," mentioned one expat in Rhode Island.
What are medical services in Rhode Island like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Rhode Island, they replied:
"Rhode Island offers a wide range of medical services to its residents. The state has a number of hospitals, clinics, and health centers that provide comprehensive care for a variety of medical needs. Rhode Island also has a number of specialty care centers that provide specialized care for specific conditions. Additionally, the state has a number of mental health and substance abuse treatment centers that provide support and treatment for those struggling with mental health and addiction issues," remarked one expat in Rhode Island.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Rhode Island?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Rhode Island can be expensive. The cost of health insurance premiums in Rhode Island is higher than the national average, and the cost of healthcare services can also be high. Additionally, Rhode Island has some of the highest out-of-pocket costs for healthcare services in the country. As a result, many Rhode Islanders struggle to afford the cost of healthcare and health insurance," wrote an expat living in Rhode Island.
What are emergency services like in Rhode Island?
When we asked about emergency services, members in Rhode Island wrote:
"In Rhode Island, emergency services are provided by the Rhode Island Department of Health and the Rhode Island State Police. Emergency medical services are provided by local fire departments and private ambulance services. To call for an ambulance, dial 911 and provide the operator with your location and the nature of the emergency. The operator will then dispatch the appropriate emergency services to the scene," wrote one expat.
Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"The cities of Providence and Warwick, as well as the surrounding areas, have a wide variety of medical specialists available. In Providence, the Rhode Island Hospital, Women & Infants Hospital, and Miriam Hospital are all well-known for their excellent selection of medical specialists. In Warwick, Kent Hospital and the Rhode Island Medical Center are both highly regarded for their selection of medical specialists. Additionally, the surrounding towns of Cranston, East Greenwich, and North Kingstown all have a variety of medical specialists available," wrote one expat.
Are common prescription medications available in Rhode Island?
"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Rhode Island. Pharmacies throughout the state carry a wide variety of medications, including both brand-name and generic drugs. Many pharmacies also offer special discounts and programs to help make medications more affordable. Additionally, many health insurance plans cover prescription medications, making them more accessible to Rhode Islanders," wrote an expat living in Rhode Island.
Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Rhode Island?
"Medical facilities and medical care in Rhode Island are generally of a high quality. The state has a wide range of hospitals, clinics, and other medical facilities that provide comprehensive care to patients. Rhode Island also has a number of highly-trained and experienced medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, who are dedicated to providing quality care to their patients. Additionally, the state has a number of innovative programs and initiatives in place to ensure that all Rhode Islanders have access to quality healthcare," wrote one expat.
As a foreigner living in Rhode Island, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"Yes, as a foreigner living in Rhode Island, you will have access to public healthcare. Rhode Island's public healthcare system is administered by the Rhode Island Department of Health and is available to all residents, regardless of their immigration status. The system provides access to a wide range of services, including preventive care, primary care, mental health services, and specialty care. The system also offers a variety of programs to help individuals and families access the care they need, such as Medicaid, the Children's Health Insurance Program, and the HealthSource RI insurance marketplace," commented one expat who moved to Rhode Island.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in Rhode Island if they have access to public healthcare in Rhode Island. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"My experiences with the local healthcare system in Rhode Island during the pandemic have been mostly positive. The healthcare providers have been very responsive and accommodating to my needs, and I have been able to access the care I need in a timely manner. The healthcare system has also been proactive in providing resources and information to help me stay informed and safe during the pandemic. I am grateful for the care and support I have received from the healthcare system during this difficult time," commented one expat living in Rhode Island.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.