Tag Archives for United Healthcare

Senior Agenda Coalition of RI Unveils 2026 Legislative Agenda at Annual Briefing

Published in RINewsToday on March 16, 2026

At its 10th annual Legislative Leader’s Forum, the Senior Agenda Coalition of Rhode Island (SACRI) unveiled its 2026 legislative agenda. More than 160 participants, including older adults, advocates, and state and federal officials, gathered at Gaige Hall at Rhode Island College for the event.

The event, “Voices of Advocacy — Anchors of Hope,” addressed the challenges facing Rhode Island’s growing older population and the policy changes needed to improve affordability, health care access, housing, and community supports.

The briefing opened with remarks by Rhode Island College President Jack R. Warner, SACRI Board Chair, Kathleen McKeon, and Executive Director Carol Anne Costa, who served as host. 

Costa began with a thank you to Rep. Joseph Solomon and Senator Mark McKeeney (who were present) for introducing the bill creating the Office of the Elder Advocate.  SACRI Policy Advisor Maureen Maigret outlined an Affordable Policy Agenda. Other speakers included representatives from the Rhode Island Coalition for Elder Justice, Economic Progress Institute, and Rhode Island Organizing Project.

A number of top elected officials followed, including U.S. Sens. Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse, Congressman Seth Magaziner, Gov. Dan McKee, State Treasurer James Diossa, House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi, and Senate Majority Leader Frank Ciccone, who discussed previous and current legislative efforts affecting older Rhode Islanders.

Rhode Island’s Aging Demographics

“One in five Rhode Islanders is 65 or older,” Maigret said, adding the state is also among the top five for residents 85 and older.

The share of residents 65 and older rose from 16% in 2016 to 19% today. Maigret reminded officials that older residents are a powerful voting bloc. In 2024, over one-third of ballots were cast by older voters.

Nearly 73% of households led by those 65 and older own their homes, while 28% rent. Housing costs burden 31% of older homeowners and 52% of renters, who spend over 30% of their income on housing.

Around 4% of older Rhode Islanders live in nursing facilities, and about 485 aged 55+ are unhoused including 164 persons aged 65+.

Older adults drive Rhode Island’s economy: 40% of the workforce is 55+, about 40,000 provide unpaid family care, and approximately 45,000 volunteer formally in their communities.

Residents aged 50 and older contribute $27 billion annually to Rhode Island’s GDP. Social Security brings $3.9 billion into the state each year, with every $1 in benefits generating about $2 in economic output.

Despite these contributions, financial insecurity persists. Older adult poverty has increased and now exceeds 11%, and nearly a quarter of older households live on less than $25,000 a year.

A healthy single older homeowner without a mortgage needs nearly $29,000 annually to cover basic expenses, exceeding what about a quarter of older households have.

SACRI’s Legislative Priorities

Maigret said affordability is the central challenge facing older residents especially those with modest incomes, and SACRI has organized its agenda around four “building blocks”: health care, economic security, housing, and community supports.

Eliminating the $9,950 asset limit for the Medicare Savings Program is a top priority. SACRI recommends removing this limit entirely to allow more low-income residents to qualify for help with Medicare costs.

 “In 2025 the legislature raised the income eligibility to about $27,000, this year we want to take the next step,” Maigret said. “And the next step is to eliminate the very restrictive asset test.”

Maigret also urged lawmakers to fully fund provider rate increases as recommended by the Office of the Health Insurance Commissioner, specifying that these funds are needed to close workforce shortages in home care.

These increases address shortages of home care workers. The coalition also urges nursing home cost-of-living adjustments to the federal 3.1% recommendation, ensuring increases reach frontline workers.

Additional SACRI recommendations include increasing funding for the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program to expand oversight and supporting an all-payer Primary Care Investment Target to increase access to primary care.

To address Rhode Island’s housing shortage, SACRI recommends a housing bond of at least $120 million, with a requirement that at least 30% be allocated to populations including older adults, persons with disabilities and the homeless. SACRI further urges that new residential developments be required to include more accessible units than the current 8% rate.

Maigret called for stronger support for caregivers and community services. Proposed policies include a caregiver tax credit up to $1,000, increasing the Medicaid home care asset limit, funding homemaker services, awarding a state grant to the Village Common of Rhode Island to aid aging in place, and establishing an Office of the Elder Advocate.

Other Policy Concerns

Nina Harrison, policy director at the Economic Progress Institute, argued that Rhode Island’s tax system places a heavier burden on lower-income residents.

“The lowest-income earners in the state pay a higher portion of their wages in taxes than the top income earners,” Harrison said. She supports creating a new tax bracket for annual income above $640,000, which she said could generate about $203 million annually for public services.

Ray Gagné of the Rhode Island Organizing Project called for restoring recent service cuts at the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority and creating a stable, long-term funding source for the system.

Lawmakers Respond

House Speaker Shekarchi shared a personal story about caring, along with his siblings, for their 100-year-old father with Alzheimer’s disease, stressing the importance of allowing older adults to age in place.

“Everything is a compromise. Everything is a negotiation,” Shekarchi said of the legislative process. He highlighted recent state investments, including $18 million to keep Roger Williams and Fatima hospitals operating, $12 million added last year to nursing home funding to address workforce shortages, and more than $40 million to increase reimbursement rates for primary care physicians.

Shekarchi also pointed to legislation allowing Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) as a step toward addressing the state’s housing shortage.

“That’s a big benefit,” he said.

Senate Majority Leader Ciccone said lawmakers are considering 17 bills to make health care more affordable and accessible. “Throughout this session, we will evaluate the financial burdens facing Rhode Islanders and the programs they rely on,” Ciccone said.

Gov. McKee argued that his “affordability for all” plan would benefit all Rhode Islanders, with key provisions for seniors, including the complete elimination of the state tax on Social Security and policies to control rising utility costs.

The Governor outlined several proposals in his budget, including increasing funding for senior centers by $200,000 for a total of $1.8 million and phasing out the state tax on Social Security income over three years, beginning with lower-income residents.

His budget also includes $9.5 million to assist nearly 10,000 residents whose HealthSource RI insurance premiums have increased sharply.

State Treasurer Diossa gave an overview of agency programs spanning the age spectrum, from baby bonds to retirement planning. He noted that his Secure Choice retirement program addresses the needs of the 40% of private-sector workers who lack access to retirement benefits.

At the federal level, Sens. Reed and Whitehouse warned that changes to federal policies could threaten Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid.

U.S. Rep. Seth Magaziner also called for federal action to lower costs, including expanding Medicare drug price negotiations and creating tax incentives to increase the housing supply. He also announced plans to pursue bipartisan legislation to establish a permanent House Select Committee on Aging. “Seniors deserve a dedicated forum in Congress focused on the challenges they face,” Magaziner said.

SACRI’s Costa ended the Forum with a call to collective action, urging attendees to leverage their influence for unified advocacy on behalf of older adults and people with disabilities in Rhode Island.

Let’s make our voices heard and ensure Rhode Island’s leaders are held accountable for advancing these critical priorities. Together, we can drive lasting change and truly roar for progress.

Two Attendees’ Perspectives

Mary Lou Moran, director of Pawtucket’s Division of Senior Services/Leon Mathieu Senior Center, said the briefing successfully brought together leaders from across government to focus on the needs of older residents.

“The continued work to eliminate the Medicare Savings Program asset limit, create an Office of the Elder Advocate, and expand funding for programs such as the Long-Term Care Ombudsman and Medicaid home care was all highlighted,” Moran said.

Moran emphasized legislative and federal efforts to support older adults and expressed optimism that the initiatives discussed will drive progress in the next session.

“The Governor’s FY 2027 State budget is fully committed, has little new revenue & substantial federal cuts in the Affordable Care Act, Medicaid, Housing Voucher & food subsidies will leave an unresolved budget hole,” says North Kingston Resident David R Kaloupek. Kaloupek, 87, asks: “How will the Rhode Island General Assembly narrow its spending targets for the state’s most vulnerable, frail older adults, nursing home residents, home care beneficiaries, and unhoused older Rhode Islanders?  When the dust settles after the upcoming legislative sessions conclude, we’ll see who will be helped and who will be abandoned.”

A final note…  The coming together of aging advocates and Gov. McKee, the House Speaker, and Senate Majority Leader might just create the political will to support key parts of SACRI’s legislative agenda, such as eliminating the Medicare Savings Plan asset limit, the state tax on Social Security, or creating an Office of Elder Advocate, which could significantly boost the chances of those proposals becoming law. The agreement between aging advocates and state lawmakers on several fronts suggested a strong potential for legislative progress on senior issues in the upcoming session.

SACRI’s 2026 Legislative Leaders’ Forum was sponsored by: Age-Friendly Rhode Island, Delta Dental, United Healthcare, Neighborhood Health Plan, SEIU Local 580 and Capitol TV.

https://capitoltvri.cablecast.tv/show/11856

Senior Agenda Coalition of RI’s 16th Annual Conference, Expo, Awards

Published in RINewsToday on September 15, 2025

The clock is ticking.  There are just 10 days left to register for the Senior Agenda Coalition of Rhode Island’s (SACRI) 16th Annual Conference and Expo “Navigating Choppy Waters – Shelter from the Storm” at Rhodes on the Pawtucket, on September 25th from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.  Breakfast and lunch boxes will be provided for attendees.

At this annual event, which is expected to draw hundreds, as in prior years, SACRI Executive Director, Carol Anne Costa, will present the inaugural Marjorie Waters Award for Service.

In Feb. 2024, Rhode Island’s aging, advocacy and disability communities were shaken by the passing of Marjorie Waters. Costa noted that after leaving a corporate career, Waters made her mark in the aging network, leaving a legacy of deep and lasting impact throughout the state.

“Marjorie dedicated her life to lifting marginalized voices and creating opportunities where others might have seen obstacles,” said Costa. “The award named in her honor ensures her legacy is not only remembered but carried forward by others who share her passion for service.”

SACRI’s Policy Advisor Maureen Maigret added, “We are living in stressful times. Programs supporting the marginalized are under the threat and reality of deep cuts, and highlighting Marjorie’s legacy is a positive way to celebrate service to our shared humanity and bolster the energy needed to continue this work.”

Board Chair Kathy McKeon, echoed that sentiment: “Celebrating the work of these individuals is how we, as an organization can collectively honor those who walk the walk and impact the folks among us who need the advocacy and compassion of champions like Ray and Sister Norma.”

A Life of Advocacy

Marjorie, a 1979 graduate from Rhode Island College with a degree in political science, began her career in information technology.  She served  as director of information technology for a Tribal Nation and later as a Six Sigma Process Excellence Coach in the finance industry.

Leaving corporate life, she turned her energy to supporting older Rhode Islanders.  As director of the Providence’s Westminster Senior Center, she quickly recognized the daily challenges of older adults.  She went on to lead advocacy efforts for the Home Care Independence Provider Program and the Raise the Bar coalitions, both of which secured key legislative victories to improve home and nursing home care.

In 2015, Waters joined the Rhode Island Organizing Project, working to expand access to health care, transportation, and community-based service. In 2022, SACRI recognized her with the Senior Heroes Award for Outstanding Service on behalf of Older Rhode Islanders.  She also played a central role in the Save RIPTA Campaign, which prevented devastating cuts to bus service.

“Marjorie’s work and relationships in the aging space were herculean, Costa said. “Her death was a blow to so many people and organizations who worked for older adults and adults with disabilities. Honoring her memory and celebrating her work was a driving factor for creating this award.” says Costa.

Celebrating the First Recipients

Costa announced that SACRI has chosen Ray Gagne and Sister Norma Fleming, RSM as the first awardees.

“In recognizing leaders in this field, the Marjorie Waters Award is a story about who we are and what we aspire to be as a community, Costa explained.  “Celebrating the work of these two individuals provides examples of advocacy that affirm humanity in every stage of life and every ability.”

She added, Ray Gagne worked, shoulder to shoulder with Marjorie, focused on transportation and transformed what could have been a devastating cut to mobility and accessibility into a matter of equity and independence.”

Gagne has been Director/Lead Organizer of Rhode Island Organizing Project (RIOP) since 2006, leading campaigns to expand access to transportation, long-term care and health care.  Prior to that, he directed campaigns around adult education, affordable housing, and after-school programs in Massachusetts.

“Sister Norma Fleming, RSM, embodies service and compassion through her direct work with adults with disabilities at ReFocus, Inc. and through her lifetime ministry and service to adults with disabilities, exemplifying what it means to foster inclusion and enrich lives, adds Costa.

Costa also praised Sister Norman Fleming, RSM, for a lifetime of service. “Sister Norma embodies service and compassion through her direct work with adults with disabilities at Re-Focus, Inc., , many other service agencies and through her ministry with the Sisters of Mercy,” said Costa.

At 90, Sister Fleming continues her service, having enriched countless lives through her leadership at ReFocus, Inc., her classroom teaching, and as a former principal at St. Mary Academy – Bay View Elementary.

Looking Ahead: Great Keynote, Knowledge, Resources, and Inspiration

The conference will also feature 35 vendors and organizations providing services and resources for older adults and caregivers. Sponsors will provide breakfast and boxed lunches.

“This program will deliver knowledge and resources in many areas,” Costa said. “Whether you’re planning for the future, seeking health insights, or navigating the complexities of caregiving, attendees will leave feeling more prepared and empowered,” she says.

Costa noted that Dr. Ed Iannuccilli was selected as keynote speaker for his medical experience and his deep understanding of the culture of health care. “As an older adult and an author, he brings so much into the conversation on a wide swath of issues,” she said.

“We all review data. And in this time of Zoom meetings and remote working, we need to get together,” added Costa. “This conference is about learning together, and Dr. Iannuccilli is the perfect person to set the tone. Often, subjects on aging can be difficult and sobering. This is SACRI’s way of talking about serious things with serious people in a happy place.”

United Healthcare is the presenting sponsor of SACRI’s “Shelter from the Storm.” Supporting sponsors are Blue Cross/Blue Shield of RI, Neighborhood Health, Delta Dental, Navigant Credit Union, SEIU, Age Friendly RI as well as a plethora of various agencies, businesses and nonprofits. This support allows SACRI to do the work to deliver good policy and law for all of Rhode Island’s older adults and adults with disabilities.

How to Register

For program specifics, visit https://rinewstoday.com/senior-agenda-coalition-of-rhode-island-fall-conference/.

To register, go to https://sacri.org/event/navigating-choppy-waters-shelter-from-the-storm/

To learn more about SACRI, visit SACRI.org

Kennedy Must Lead Fight Against Medicare HMO Rate Hikes

Published in The Pawtucket Times on November 19, 2001

Across the nation, seniors who have enrolled in Medicare HMOs are getting hit hard in the pocketbook.  Premiums and copays for hospital care, nursing services and prescription drugs are skyrocketing. Complaining about inadequate federal funding offered to provide health care services to seniors, a growing number of Medicare HMOs are opting out of the program, leaving their senior enrollees high and dry.

In Rhode Island, seniors are also seeing this alarming trend. Last year, United Healthcare discontinued its Medicare Plus Choice program, first in Newport County, then in Bristol County.  Now Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rhode Island (BCBS) informs its seniors that higher premiums and copays come next year for two of their three BlueCHiP for Medicare plans. The increases include prescription drugs, inpatient care, skilled nursing services, and more. The added out-of-pocket costs impacts about 41,000 seniors across the state.

However, Rep. Patrick Kennedy (D-RI) is not buying BlueCHiP’s request for a rate increases.

In a strongly worded letter Tom Scully, the administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, the agency charged with overseeing the Medicare program, the Rhode Island congressman strongly protested the rate hikes.

He called on the federal official to investigate whether the current market for Medicare HMOs in Rhode Island has created a situation where the types of increases charged by BCBS are more likely to occur and be approved.

Furthermore, he requested a review to determine if the increases are actuarially sound.

Scott Fraser, BCBS spokesperson, acknowledges that the premium increases of the two BlueCHiP plans were the result of higher medical costs passed onto the BlueCHiP plans by hospital and other medical providers. “It’s medical inflation,” he quips, adding that even higher medication costs charged by drug companies has resulted in an increase in drug copays.

Even with next year’s increases, the BlueCHiP plans will not increase the premiums for the most commonly used services, specifically physician visits, laboratory tests and X-ray services, Fraser adds. “These co-pays have been the same for the last three years.”

CMS has reviewed BCBS’s application for the changes in rates and benefits over the summer, says Fraser, adding that the rate increase was given a thumbs up by the Feds.

Are BCBS’s rate increase actually sound thus justifiable?

CMS spokesperson Peter Ashkenaz told All About Seniors “the fact that the request has been approved by CMS speaks for itself. If the costs seem to be higher than what would be paid for in fee-service Medicare, we would have questioned them.”

Ed Zesk, president of Aging 2000, a non-profit consumer advocacy group. Believes that Rep. Kennedy has asked the right questions in his letter to CMS, specifically, “Are these premium and deductible increases justifiable?”

“Consumers just don’t have access to that type of information, Zesk said.

With Medicare reform now on the back burner as the nation gears up to fight terrorism, Rep. Kennedy must use his position on the House Appropriations Committee and Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services and Education, to address the rising out-of-pocket healthcare costs for Medicare HMO enrollees. As the Congressional elections approach, seniors will want to see concrete congressional action leading to meaningful Medicare reforms.