Maine House advances Evans’ bill to improve access to affordable health care

AUGUSTA – The Maine House of Representatives gave initial approval Feb. 23 to a resolution that would help expand access to affordable health care in Maine. The measure is sponsored by Rep. Richard Evans, D-Dover Foxcroft.

If enacted, LD 1778 would identify barriers to affordable health care and develop proposals on potential methods to improve health care affordability and coverage for individuals and small businesses in Maine. This bill would also require the Office of Affordable Health Care to study the effects of policies aimed at improving health care affordability and coverage, including effects on the affordability of premiums, cost-sharing in the individual and small group health insurance markets and the effects of the policies on enrollment in comprehensive health coverage.

“I am pleased that my legislative colleagues agree with me that although much has been done, there remains much more to do to address the barriers that impede access to affordable health care,” said Evans. “As a physician and surgeon, I have always believed that health is the first wealth. Accessible and affordable health care allows every Mainer to pursue their career, raise their family and lead the fulfilling life they wish to live. It is these individuals and small businesses who need our help the most.”

In 2021, roughly 8 percent of Mainers were uninsured, and 51 percent of these uninsured adults cited cost as the major reason why they don’t have health care coverage.

Evans is a physician and surgeon and represents the communities of Atkinson, Brownville, Dover-Foxcroft, Lake View, Medford, Milo, and Orneville Township in Piscataquis County. He serves on the Health Coverage, Insurance and Financial Services Committee.