RIPIN’s Health Insurance Consumer Assistance Program Saves Rhode Islanders Over $10 Million in Health Care Costs
Warwick, RI — March 16, 2026 —RIPIN announced today that its health insurance consumer assistance program has reached a landmark milestone: helping Rhode Islanders save more than $10 million in health care costs since 2018.
RIPIN will celebrate this achievement at a special event on Monday, March 16 at 10:00 a.m. at its office at 300 Jefferson Boulevard in Warwick. State leaders Speaker Joseph Shekarchi and Senate Finance Chair Louis DiPalma, and Health Insurance Commissioner Cory King attended to recognize this program’s success and the positive impact it has on families across the state.
RIPIN’s health insurance consumer assistance program helps consumers navigate health insurance, resolve billing errors, file appeals, access critical services, address medical debt, and overcome barriers to care. The program serves thousands of Rhode Islanders annually—many of whom face medical, financial, or bureaucratic challenges that can delay or prevent necessary treatment. As health care and health insurance have continued to become more complex, this program has been there to assist Rhode Islanders in getting the care they need.
This critical program also faces fiscal challenges, as the Governor’s fiscal year 2027 budget proposes to cut $238,000 in funding, reducing total program funding by about one-third. Senate Finance Chair Louis DiPalma and Representative Tina Spears have introduced budget resolutions (S-2816 / H-7400) calling to maintain funding for this successful program.
Over the 8-year period during which RIPIN helped Rhode Islanders save $10 million, the program has received about $2.5 million in federal funds and $3.5 million in state general revenue, providing a return on investment to Rhode Islanders of 3 to 1.
“For years, RIPIN’s health insurance consumer assistance program has been a trusted resource for Rhode Islanders navigating complex insurance challenges,” said Sam Salganik, Executive Director of RIPIN. “Surpassing $10 million in savings reflects not only the dedication of our staff, but also our mission to ensure every Rhode Islander can access and afford the care they need. We’re so excited to celebrate this important milestone with our State and Federal partners who made this possible, and we hope that this partnership continues for many years to come.”
“RIPIN is on the front lines of helping Rhode Islanders navigate the health insurance marketplace and helps connect them with cost-effective care,” said U.S. Senator Jack Reed. “As President Trump and Congressional Republicans cause health price spikes, cut $1 trillion from Medicaid, and make it harder for millions of Americans to get health care, I remain committed to working alongside RIPIN to help Rhode Islanders save their hard-earned money and ensure they can access high-quality, affordable health care that meets their needs.”
“RIPIN has been a lifeline for many Rhode Islanders, helping folks save money and navigate the absurd complexities of our health care system,” said U.S. Senator Whitehouse. “Bravo to RIPIN on this $10 million savings milestone.”
“RIPIN is a trusted guide for Rhode Islanders navigating an often confusing health insurance system,” said U.S. Congressman Gabe Amo. “As accessing health care becomes more complex and strained, RIPIN is there to help our community understand their coverage, saving Rhode Islanders over $10 million. I will continue working in Washington to ensure programs like this have the resources they need so families across our state can continue to get the support they deserve.”
“Thank you to RIPIN for putting more than $10 million back in the pockets of Rhode Island consumers,” said Rhode Island House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi. “By helping families navigate the insurance process, RIPIN is reducing barriers to care and improving the health of our communities.”
“As Chair of the Senate Finance Committee, and someone who relies on data-based decision making, I have a deep appreciation for programs and initiatives that operate effectively and efficiently while making a positive, tangible difference in people’s lives,” said Rhode Island Chair of Senate Finance Committee Louis DiPalma. “RIPIN’s Health Insurance Consumer Assistance Program does outstanding work to support Rhode Islanders as they navigate an increasingly complex and costly health care landscape. On behalf of the Senate, I am grateful to RIPIN and everyone who makes this critical program possible.”
