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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. |
