How the Rhode Island EOHHS Ecosystem Leverages Federal Funding to Support State Data Capacity

Investments in cross-agency data capacity and integration yield substantial returns by allowing governments to identify what works, coordinate to decrease duplication, and target resources to maximize impact. But despite clear fiscal benefits, the costs associated with starting and sustaining an integrated data system (IDS) may present barriers.

The following case study describes how the state of Rhode Island has diversified funding for their state IDS by leveraging a range of federal funding sources. We provide concrete examples throughout, highlighting the state’s use of a State Opioid Response (SOR) Grant to support cross-agency action and their use of CARES Act dollars to support COVID-19 response, among others. While every context is unique, Rhode Island’s experience offers lessons for other state (and local) governments seeking to build flexible capacity to integrate data for impact.