R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-17-3: Purpose of provisions.

The purpose of this chapter is to provide for the development, establishment, and enforcement of standards:

(1) For the care and treatment of individuals in health care facilities;

(2) For the maintenance and operation of health care facilities which in the light of advancing knowledge, will promote appropriate access and safe and adequate treatment for individuals receiving health care facility services; and

(3) For the encouragement of quality improvement in all aspects of the operations of health care facilities.