AUGUSTA - Rep. Colleen Madigan, D-Waterville, introduced a bill last Thursday before the Legislature's Health and Human Services Committee that would make it easier for more MaineCare members to have a loved one accompany them to a medical appointment.
Currently, MaineCare members have limited ability to have a family member ride with them to appointments if the transportation is paid for by MaineCare, which provides for contracted ride services for patients who don't, or are unable to, drive themselves. Current rules allow only for the patient themselves to be transported. Madigan's bill would expand this provision to allow family members to ride along, ensuring that these patients do not have to attend their appointments alone.
A lack of family support can make it harder for some patients to understand their rights, to ask questions during appointments or to receive proper follow-up care.
"If a patient is uncomfortable with attending an appointment alone, they shouldn't have to," said Madigan. "Family members play an integral role in the medical care of a loved one. This proposed legislation would enable them to be transported with the patient in order to provide support or assistance, leading to better health outcomes."
The committee will hold a work session on the bill in the coming weeks.
Madigan is serving her fourth term in the Maine House and represents House District 64, which includes parts of Waterville and Winslow. She serves on the Legislature's Joint Standing Committee on Health and Human Services.
Contact:
Brian Lee [Madigan], c. 305-965-2744