On Dec. 11, 2023, the Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) announced the temporary closure to the westbound side of the Washington Bridge, which connects Providence and East Providence, for emergency repairs. RIDOT projects that the westbound lanes will remain closed for 2-3 weeks, with the return to normal traffic flow expected to take several months.
During this time, significant delays are expected which may impact the ability for patients to reach their appointments. To reduce barriers to care, we ask that you allow for maximum flexibility in accommodating patients who are affected by this closure. This may include:
- Offering alternative ways to access care, such as telemedicine services
- Continuing to see patients who arrive late to their appointment
- Keeping your patients informed on the bridge closure before their appointment
Additionally, Rhode Island Executive Office of Health and Human Services recently reminded providers that imposing late fees, balance billing, and/or termination of Medicaid members who miss or are late to appointments due to the bridge closure is not permitted.
For the latest information about the bridge closure, visit the RIDOT website. For information on telehealth/telemedicine billing, refer to the Harvard Pilgrim and Tufts Health Plan Telehealth/Telemedicine Payment Policies.