Senate gives initial approval to Sen. Baldacci bill to help Mainers access health insurance

AUGUSTA — Today, the Maine Senate voted in favor of LD 1310, “An Act to Amend the Laws Governing Insurance Coverage of Preventive and Primary Health Services,” a bill sponsored by Sen. Joe Baldacci, D-Bangor.

“It is time to take both the financial and emotional uncertainty out of going to the doctor,” said Sen. Baldacci. “I have known too many Mainers who forwent seeing a medical professional because they were uncertain of how much the visit was going to cost. That is an inexcusable barrier. I am pleased my colleagues see the necessity of this legislation, and I am hopeful for a positive vote in the House.”

As amended, LD 1310 will allow zero deductible health plans (ZDHPs) to be offered in Maine’s fully insured, large group market by creating a limited and conditional exemption from the requirement that the first primary care and behavioral health office visits be provided free of charge to the member.

Under a ZDHP, members are responsible only for a single combined co-pay and therefore know exactly what they are going to pay before their office visit. This removes the uncertainty and fear of high medical costs that too many Mainers face when deciding whether to seek medical care.

LD 1310 faces further votes in the Senate and House.