What does it take to thrive? If you’re a gardener, you know that plants need adequate sun and water, space for their roots to take hold, and the right support to grow strong and healthy.

People really aren’t all that different.

We need nutritious food, safe and stable housing, and affordable, equitable healthcare to be at our best. That’s the driving force behind our new campaign, RI Rising.

Launched in early July, RI Rising is a campaign about a commitment—one that BCBSRI has made to our Rhode Island clients and their employees. Through strategic initiatives and community and provider partnerships, we are working to increase access to healthcare services and support so that every BCBSRI member everywhere can rise and thrive.

Six strategies to support better health and happiness

Expanding access to youth mental health services – Children and teens deserve compassionate, culturally appropriate care for anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and other mental health challenges. To better meet our youngest members’ needs, BCBSRI is continually adding new programs and treatment options.

Improving maternal health outcomes – Our comprehensive maternal care program - which includes coverage for trained and certified doulas - is designed to help reduce the risk of premature birth, low birthweight, and pregnancy-related complications.

Lowering prescription drug costs – It’s no secret that prescription drug costs are growing at unsustainable annual rates, most notably for specialty medications. To help tackle rising costs—and support more favorable member health outcomes—we’re applying market-based solutions coupled with a value-based approach to care that includes integrated pharmacy and medical benefits.

Reducing colorectal cancer rates – Colorectal cancer is one of the most common and preventable forms of cancer, thanks in large part to available and effective screening options. Although these tests are generally covered as $0 preventive care, screening rates remain lower for certain member populations. We’re working to increase awareness about the importance of screening and help remove social and systemic barriers to testing.

Increasing food and housing security – Since 2019, BCBSRI has distributed more than $5 million in grants to organizations working at the intersection of housing and health. At both the employee and corporate level, we support organizations such as the Southside Community Land Trust, Meals on Wheels, and RI Food Bank that are working to ensure hungry Rhode Islanders have access to nutritious food.

Delivering exceptional customer service – With four Your Blue Store^SM locations across the Ocean State (and a fifth one opening in Narragansett this fall), BCBSRI is meeting members where they are. Your employees can get answers to health plan questions, speak with a registered nurse or dietitian, and enjoy no-cost fitness classes and cooking demos in a warm, welcoming environment. If visiting Your Blue Store isn’t an option for out-of-state employees, BCBSRI Customer Service can also answer questions and connect members with health support services like care management.

The next time you’re driving down the highway or perusing your social media feed, look for RI Rising billboards and digital ads. If you’d like to learn more about this campaign and our commitment to equitable, affordable healthcare, please contact your BCBSRI account executive or broker.