Medicaid entitlement for 49 - FY 2026 - T19

The Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services awarded the State of Rhode Island Department of Administration $11.363 billion in Medicaid entitlement funding on October 1, 2025, under the Grants to States for Medicaid program (CFDA 93.778), with performance through September 30, 2026.

The award funds medical assistance payments on behalf of cash assistance recipients, children, pregnant women, the aged, and other categorically-eligible groups meeting income and resource requirements. In Rhode Island, the funding also covers medically-needy persons who would be eligible for cash assistance except for income and resources, as well as Medicare premiums, copayments, and deductibles for qualified Medicare beneficiaries meeting certain income thresholds. The State of Rhode Island serves as the parent entity; the State of Rhode Island Department of Administration's Office of Library & Information Services Division functions as the direct recipient and administers the award statewide. The award obligated $11.363 billion and performance occurs in Rhode Island.

Under the Medicaid program structure, States submit quarterly estimates of funds needed by specified deadlines (August 8, November 15, February 15, and May 15) and receive quarterly awards on October 1, January 1, April 1, and July 1. Individuals apply to the State at any time and must receive fair hearing rights if denied assistance. Participating medical care providers deliver services to eligible individuals. States operate under an HHS-approved Medicaid State Plan and maintain records substantiating direct and indirect costs charged to the grant.