Rhode Island bill aims to allow blended concierge and traditional medicine

Proposed legislation would let doctors see both concierge and regular patients

Apr. 14, 2026 at 1:20am

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An abstract, ghostly X-ray image showing the internal structure of a stethoscope and medical clipboard, conceptually representing the blending of traditional and concierge healthcare models.A proposed bill in Rhode Island aims to allow doctors to blend concierge and traditional medicine models, potentially expanding patient access while addressing provider financial challenges.Providence Today

A bill sponsored by Warwick State Representative Marie Hopkins would allow doctors in Rhode Island to practice a blended model of concierge and traditional medicine. The measure is designed to address low reimbursement rates from insurance companies that have led some providers to turn to concierge care, where patients pay an annual fee for enhanced access and services.

Why it matters

The proposed legislation aims to give patients more options for accessing healthcare, while also supporting doctors who are struggling with the economics of running a traditional medical practice. Concierge medicine has faced some ethical concerns, and this bill seeks to create a framework where doctors can see both types of patients.

The details

The bill would permit medical professionals to see both concierge and traditional patients, which is currently prohibited under contract language between providers and insurers. Representative Hopkins says this 'blended model' is necessary because doctors can't afford to keep their practices open due to low reimbursement rates from insurance companies.

  • The bill was introduced earlier this month in the Rhode Island state legislature.

The players

Marie Hopkins

Warwick State Representative who is sponsoring the bills to support concierge medicine in Rhode Island.

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What they’re saying

“The measure would allow medical professionals to practice a blended model, allowing providers to see concierge and traditional patients who can't afford it.”

— Marie Hopkins, Warwick State Representative

What’s next

The proposed legislation will now go through the committee process in the Rhode Island General Assembly, where lawmakers will debate and potentially amend the bill before a full vote.

The takeaway

This bill represents an attempt to give patients more options for accessing healthcare, while also supporting doctors who are struggling with the economics of running a traditional medical practice. If passed, it could help address concerns around the ethical implications of concierge medicine by allowing a blended model.