R.I. Gen. Laws § 14-1-51: Physical or mental examination and treatment.

(a) The court may cause any person coming under its jurisdiction to be examined by a licensed physician who is expert in physical diagnosis or in neuropsychiatry.

(b) Whenever a child who has been brought before the family court appears to be in need of medical or surgical care, the court may order the parent, guardian, or other custodian to provide treatment for the child in a hospital or otherwise. If the parent, guardian or other custodian fails to provide that care, the court may, after due notice, enter an order for it; and the expense of the medical care when approved by the court shall be charged to the state, if the parents are unable to pay it.