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Purpose/Goals: |
This mutual effort brings together
MCPH and MPHA to bring a public health perspective as the
Governor's office of State Health Policy and Finance continues
its innovative health reform efforts. MCPH's role is to
ensure that public health, prevention and health promotion are
key elements of both the innovative insurance product for
uninsured and underinsured Mainers and the forthcoming state
health plan. The Task Force includes a diverse group of
approximately 25 stakeholders; we work closely with Moose Ridge
Associates, a respected firm of consultants who advise the group
on advocacy and the legislative process.
In Year 1 of this effort, we proposed an innovative prevention
package for the benefit plan, which was accepted. Members
of the Task Force were represented on many Dirigo committees and
boards. We also educated those in the "access" community
about public health and the Care Model. Our efforts helped
lead to the development of the Community Partners for a Healthy
Maine, a group representing prevention efforts on the local
level.
In Year 2, which runs throughout 2005, we are working on public
health recommendations for the state health plan as well as
ensuring that the recommendations for the plan are carried out.
We have also provided comment on the Hospital Commission Report
and other Dirigo products. We will be holding forums on
aspects of public health infrastructure, including workforce
issues, information technology and the intersection of clinical
care and public health. |
