Blog

Federal Proposals Threaten Health Coverage, Nutrition Assistance, and Marketplace Stability in Maine

The Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is closely monitoring proposed federal budget reconciliation legislation that could profoundly impact the health and well-being of Maine residents.

Expanded Access to Breast and Cervical Cancer Services for Maine Women 21+

Since 1995, the Maine CDC Breast and Cervical Health Program has helped clients access timely breast and cervical cancer screening, diagnostic, and treatment services. The program recently expanded eligibility to include qualifying women ages 21 and older -- lowering the previous age threshold of 35.

Mental Health Awareness Month: Prioritizing Well-Being for All Mainers

Mental health affects every one of us – our families, our communities, and our future. This May, during Mental Health Awareness Month, we reaffirm the importance of mental wellness and our shared commitment to supporting one another.

Affordable Health Coverage at Risk: Mainers Speak Out on Expiring Tax Credits

Federal enhanced premium tax credits have been instrumental in making health insurance more affordable for thousands of Mainers through Cover

Impact of Federal Medicaid Proposals on Maine

As the U.S. Congress develops the federal budget, several proposals have surfaced to meet the stated goal of $880 billion in savings from the House Energy and Commerce Committee. Many of these proposals center on Medicaid, which provides health coverage to low-income individuals and families, older adults, and people with disabilities, nationwide.

DHHS Partners with Maine Health Care Association and Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program on a QuEST for Nursing Home Quality

Quality, Excellence, Staffing, and Teamwork (QuEST) are key to improving value for Maine’s nursing home residents.

Maine DHHS Outlines Impacts on Public and Behavioral Health Services from Termination of Federal Health Grants

AUGUSTA -- The Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) today provided additional details on the impact from the termination of nearly $91 million in federal public health and behavioral health grants to Maine.

The Department of Health and Human Services Introduces Maine's Whole Person Care Waiver

Maine’s DHHS is applying for an 1115 waiver. In this post, we’ll share the basics you need to know about what this waiver is, and why DHHS is applying for it.

Inside the Enhanced ‘By the Numbers’ Dashboard: Greater Insights for Maine DHHS

Maine’s Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is committed to providing clear, accurate, and transparent data about its programs and services. As part of this commitment, Maine DHHS recently launched an updated “By the Numbers” data dashboard.

Respite for ME Final Evaluation Confirms Positive Impact of Pilot Program on Family Caregivers and Older People in Maine

Caregiver assessments and flexible benefits contributed to the pilot’s success.

Overview of DHHS Investments & Adjustments in FY26-27 Biennial Budget Proposal

The following is a broad overview of some of the General Fund investments outlined in the Governor's FY26-27 biennial budget and the cost-saving measures proposed through the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) budget.

Timeline for Lifespan Waiver Implementation Comes into Focus as Program Development Continues

The Department expects the Lifespan program to be ready for enrollment by July 2026.

Maine DHHS provides final update on MaineCare "unwinding"

Today, the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) released an update on the conclusion of MaineCare (Medicaid) eligibility reviews after the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency, known as "unwinding." At the conclusion of the 15-month unwinding period (from May 2023 through October 2024), the Department's efforts have result

DHHS Launches Project to Uplift American Sign Language/English Interpreting Services for Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing Residents: Announcing Transforming Interpreting Maine (TIME)

Maine Launches TIME Project to Enhance ASL Interpreting Services Across the State

View the new TIME website which includes an announcement about the TIME Project needs assessment.

Maine CDC Advances Understanding of PFAS in Crops Grown for Livestock Feed

The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) recently published important new data in the scientific Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry.

Department Co-Hosts Conversation with U.S. Surgeon General and Governor on Loneliness, Resiliency, and Reaching Out for Help

The Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) joined Governor Janet Mills and U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek Murthy, on September 27 for a panel discussion about building resilience through human connection.

Maine DHHS releases new analysis to inform outreach as final phase of MaineCare "unwinding" approaches

Maine's Medicaid program (MaineCare) is in the midst of significant changes that make it more important than ever to keep Maine people covered for health care.

DHHS Announces Redesign of Office of Child and Family Services

Reorganization strengthens child welfare operations and completes transition of Children’s Behavioral Health Services

Maine Office of Child and Family Services Announces Child Care Reimbursement Rate Increases

The Maine DHHS Office of Child and Family Services (OCFS) announced today new child care reimbursement rates taking effect in July 2024 that will improve access to high-quality child care and early childhood learning for families across Maine.

Maine Takes Further Action to Improve Child Welfare System

The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) continues to make progress on key priorities and efforts to implement the numerous laws and initiatives advanced by the 131st Legislature as it approaches adjournment.