This post was written by MCA executive director Clare Berkowitz and originally appeared as a letter to the editor
in the Portland Press Herald. Since the letter was published, Senator Collins has come out against the bill.
Over the past decade, Maine’s infant mortality rates have risen steadily and are now above the national average
. The latest data
reveal that infant mortality rates are highest in Maine’s more rural areas. The best way to effectively address Maine’s infant mortality crisis is by making sure more young children and families have access to health care.
MaineCare already covers more children and families living in rural areas
than in metropolitan areas. The Senate bill could exacerbate Maine’s infant mortality problem by forcing Maine to cover fewer pregnant women and children. Healthy and thriving Maine communities start with healthy babies, children and families. By opposing the Senate health care bill and protecting MaineCare, we can strengthen Maine’s future by ensuring that kids continue to get what they need prenatally through adulthood.
I hope Sen. Susan Collins will continue her support of Maine children, youth and families by opposing this cruel and reckless bill.* *Update: Senator Collins has come out against the bill.
Over the past decade, Maine’s infant mortality rates have risen steadily and are now above the national average
. The latest data
reveal that infant mortality rates are highest in Maine’s more rural areas. The best way to effectively address Maine’s infant mortality crisis is by making sure more young children and families have access to health care.
MaineCare already covers more children and families living in rural areas
than in metropolitan areas. The Senate bill could exacerbate Maine’s infant mortality problem by forcing Maine to cover fewer pregnant women and children. Healthy and thriving Maine communities start with healthy babies, children and families. By opposing the Senate health care bill and protecting MaineCare, we can strengthen Maine’s future by ensuring that kids continue to get what they need prenatally through adulthood.
I hope Sen. Susan Collins will continue her support of Maine children, youth and families by opposing this cruel and reckless bill.* *Update: Senator Collins has come out against the bill.