NEW: Hospitals Pump $6.3 Billion into RI Economy

NEW: Hospitals Pump $6.3 Billion into RI Economy

Rhode Island hospitals pumped $6.3 billion into the state economy and accounted for 39,200 jobs in 2009, according to a report by the Hospital Association of Rhode Island (HARI).

■ The purchase of goods and services for patient care — costing approximately $1.2 billion per year — flushes money from hospitals into vendors and businesses, generating just under $2.5 billion for the local economy.

■ In 2009, Rhode Island hospitals spent over $180 million to improve hospital infrastructure, not only providing patients with the quality care that they need, but also generating over $366 million for the state economy.

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■ Furthermore, hospitals in the state employ 20,900 health care professionals — 5 percent of Rhode Island's private sector employment — with a total payroll of $1.7 billion — 11 percent of the state's private sector payroll. Dollars earned and spent by hospital employees generate almost $3.5 billion in economic activity each year.

"Hospitals are critical to a vibrant Rhode Island," said HARI President Edward J. Quinlan. "To continue to attract jobs to and keep families in our state, we must have high-quality health care providers and services. We urge our elected officials and community leaders to recognize that out hospitals are instrumental to a healthy, strong and desirable Rhode Island."

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