When it comes to health care, we are focused on ensuring comprehensive care is not limited by age, gender, pre-existing conditions or income. Every Mainer deserves access to quality, affordable health care, and we are fighting for just that.
It is of no surprise that the opioid epidemic is one that is hitting our state hard. The number of Mainers suffering from opiate addiction grows daily. What is often overlooked is who else is being affected. In this case, is the expectant mother and her unborn child. Over 8% of babies born in Maine are born addicted. In speaking to health care providers, it became clear to me that this is a problem with an urgent need to address. I have heard stories of heartbreak and desperation from where I live but know that this is a statewide issue that spreads to every corner of the state.
When it comes to addressing the opioid epidemic, not matter which aspect it may be, it is a problem that needs to be solved yesterday, no tomorrow or next year, and it is our duty as legislators to do everything in our power to provide solutions.
Every Mainer deserves access to affordable health care. Comprehensive care should not be limited by age, gender, pre-existing conditions or income. That’s why the Legislature took steps this session to expand insurance options and provide better support for our hospitals and health care workers.
We put federal Affordable Care Act protections into our state law, ensuring insurance plans cover essential health benefits, such as prescription drugs, emergency services, maternity care, mental health care and substance use treatment. We started a process to shrink caseloads for child and family service workers and to give families help when they need it most. We also took steps to reduce the cost of pharmaceuticals and to improve treatment options for victims of the opioid crisis.
Providing all Maine people with the best health care possible without creating financial burdens will always be my one of my greatest priorities.
Providing all Maine people with the best health care possible without creating financial burdens will always be my one of my greatest priorities.
Rep. Tiffany roberts