R.I. Gen. Laws § 40.1-2-16: Protection of health of residents.

In exercising the power and authority to provide for the care and physical welfare of the inmates, prisoners, patients, and pupils in the several institutions under its control and for the protection of the public health, the department of behavioral healthcare, developmental disabilities and hospitals shall furnish all necessary medical aid and attention, and shall take all necessary steps to promote the health of the inmates, prisoners, patients, and pupils, and especially to guard them and the general public against all dangerous, infectious, and contagious diseases at those institutions.