AUGUSTA - The Legislative Council recently approved a bill from Rep. Colleen Madigan, D-Waterville, that would make it easier for more MaineCare members to have a loved one accompany them to a medical appointment.
Currently, MaineCare members are not permitted to have a family member ride with them to appointments, if the transportation is paid for by MaineCare, which provides for contracted ride services to transport patients who don't, or are unable to, drive themselves. Current rules allow only for the patient to be transported. Madigan's bill would expand this provision and ensure 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.
"Having a family member or trusted person accompany you to an appointment or test is a patients right," said Madigan. "Our health care system depends on family members being involved in care. Each day, MaineCare members face serious diagnoses or require coordinated care, just like everyone else. They, too, should have the option to have a family member or loved one by their side if they wish."
Madigan's bill will be heard when the Legislature meets again in January.
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