R.I. Gen. Laws § 40.1-2-5: Duty of patient to pay charges for care and treatment — Court action for collection.

Every patient shall pay, from the patient’s estate, all charges billed to the patient for care and treatment in a facility. The department may undertake any action, including, but not limited to, court action, to reach the estate of a patient who has accrued unpaid charges for care and treatment. The department may also accept less than the full amount owed in full settlement, in accordance with rules and regulations promulgated pursuant to § 40.1-2-2.