RI gets health care innovation funding

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) -- Rhode Island is one of 25 states getting federal funds to help develop what officials say will be an innovative approach to improving health care quality and lowering costs.  

The state is getting more than $1.6 million in State Innovation Model funding to develop a so-called Health Care Innovation Plan. The plan will include a review of state payment and delivery system reforms and identify ways to create a more community-based, patient focused system.

Rhode Island's congressional delegation announced the funding Friday along with Gov. Lincoln Chafee and Lt. Gov. Elizabeth Roberts. The grant is being made available through the Affordable Care Act, President Barack Obama's signature health care overhaul.

Officials say the reforms can lead to higher quality and more affordable patient care.