Sen. Ingwersen bill to attract health care workforce in rural communities advances through Senate

AUGUSTA — Yesterday, the Maine Senate unanimously approved in initial votes LD 1311, “An Act to Expand Health Care Workforce by Improving Educational Opportunities,” a bill sponsored by Sen. Henry Ingwersen, D-Arundel, that aims to address workforce shortages that threaten access to quality, affordable health care for Maine people.

“Across the country, physician shortages have left communities desperate for care, and Maine is no exception,” said Sen. Ingwersen. “These shortages have serious consequences, including reduced access to care, delayed treatment and poorer health outcomes. LD 1311 encourages young doctors to take up rural practice and prepare them for success.”

LD 1311 would establish the Maine Health Care Education Training and Medical Residency Fund, which would provide $1.95 million annually to support health care workforce development in rural and underserved communities. This funding would be used to expand clinical rotation, residencies and preceptorships, as well as support innovative solutions and technological advancements in health care education.

According to the Association of American Medical Colleges, “of the more than 7,200 federally designated health professional shortage areas, 3 out of 5 are in rural regions. And while 20% of the U.S. population lives in rural communities, only 11% of physicians practice in such areas.”

LD 1311 now faces further votes in the House and Senate.