Maine takes a leading role on state response to health care reform

During an event yesterday with White House Office of Health Reform Director Nancy-Ann DeParle, Maine Governor John E. Baldacci highlighted the steps the state is taking to become a leader in responding to federal health care reform legislation requirements. According to the Governor, since the legislation was signed by President Obama, Maine has been aggressively working to meet the goals for states outlined in the new law.

CivSource noted earlier this year that the state launched a new website which outlines changes to insurance law and individuals benefits. In addition to education, Maine is working to increase the heath of its citizens, cover the uninsured and has opened a new public health system.

The state also recently reopened its subsidized health insurance product DirigioChoice which will provide coverage for individuals, small businesses and the self-employed. In April, Governor Baldacci issued an Executive Order creating a Steering Committee on Health Reform which will study and provide recommendations on how best to implement federal requirements.

“All Americans should have access to high quality, affordable health care. We cannot have a healthy economy without healthy people,” said Governor Baldacci.