The ease of obtaining health care on Vinalhaven is one of the most important reasons why so many of us are able to live here. That “ease” is in serious danger of being cut by the current administration.
MaineCare provides free and low-cost health insurance to Mainers who meet certain requirements, based on household composition and income. There are also additional options for people with disabilities and certain health conditions, young adults who have been in foster care, and those who need long-term care. It covers prescription drugs, doctor visits, emergencies, and substance use disorder treatment. MaineCare is especially important for children – families who cannot afford main stream insurance never have to decide whether or not to take their child to a physician for vaccinations, regular check ups, or acute problems.
Medicare is a federal health insurance program for people age 65 or older. The program
helps with the cost of health care, but it doesn’t cover all medical expenses or the cost of most long-term care. As we age, as we stop participating in the workforce and have less income, this insurance is critical to ensuring that we are bankrupted by illness.
MaineCare (which receives funding from the federal government) is scheduled for major cuts in the current proposed tax bill.
Just the Facts 