R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-17.17-3
The director of health is authorized and directed to develop a state health care quality performance measurement and reporting program. The health care quality performance measurement and reporting program shall include quality performance measures and reporting for health care facilities licensed in Rhode Island. The program shall be phased in over a multi-year period and shall begin with the establishment of a program of quality performance measurement and reporting for hospitals. In subsequent years, quality performance measurement and reporting requirements will be established for other types of health care facilities such as nursing facilities, home nursing care providers, other licensed facilities, and licensed health care providers as determined by the director of health. Prior to developing and implementing a quality performance measurement and reporting program for hospitals or any other health care facility or health care provider, the director shall seek public comment regarding the type of performance measures to be used and the methods and format for collecting the data.
R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-17.17-3