Sen. Thompson introduces bill to support graduate medical education programs and research
Bill is part of Senate’s package of legislation focused on addressing health care accessibility and affordability
STATE HOUSE – Sen. Brian J. Thompson has introduced legislation (2025-S 0171) that would allow for the use of Medicaid funding to support graduate medical education programs and research in areas including, but not limited to, trauma care, primary care, maternal health, mental health, and substance abuse treatment.
The bill is part of the Senate Leadership’s 9-bill package of legislation focused on addressing health care accessibility and affordability.
“Our state needs to train and retain more doctors and health professionals in order for our healthcare crisis to improve. This bill will expand our medical talent pool by helping with the expensive costs of these vital educational programs. I commend the Senate Leadership for their thoughtful and expansive legislative package addressing the healthcare crisis and I am proud to be a part of this initiative that will benefit all Rhode Islanders,” said Senator Thompson (D-Dist. 20, Woonsocket, Cumberland).
The legislation would allow the Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS) to use appropriated funds to support graduate medical education programs and research. The bill would also direct the secretary of the EOHHS to determine the appropriate Medicaid payment mechanism in order to make the payments annually.
The bill has been referred to the Senate Finance Committee.
The Senate will vote later on a measure that's aimed to end the government shutdown. There's been little signs of progress as Democratic lawmakers remain dug in on efforts to extend healthcare subsidies. Meanwhile, Republicans are demanding the government reopen before any negotiations take place. 
