However, an amended version of the bill, if passed, would limit price growth for some private insurance plans
Joe Lawlor
Staff Writer
Joe Lawlor writes about health and human services for the Press Herald. A 24-year newspaper veteran, Lawlor has worked in Ohio, Michigan and Virginia before relocating to Maine in 2013 to join the Press Herald. He is still considered “from away” but since then, he has learned what a “dooryard” is, eaten “whoopie pies” drank Moxie and boiled some “lobstahs.” The stories he enjoys most are when he learns something and meeting inspiring people.
He lives in South Portland - aka “SoPo” - with his wife, Melanie, and two school-age children.
Posted inHealth, Local & State, News
Maine measles cases reported last month contained, health officials say
5 cases of measles, reported in Penobscot County in February, have not spread, according to the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention.
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Posted inHealth, Local & State, News
Maine’s warmer weather means deer ticks are active
The state logged a record 4,257 Lyme disease cases in 2025, according to the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention.
Posted inHealth, Local & State, News
Advocates say Medicaid rule changes would cut disability services for some Maine kids
A Maine Department of Health and Human Services spokesperson says the intent is to ‘update outdated references and clarify vague language’ in the existing rules.
Posted inHealth, News
Maine hospitals, health advocates debate bill that would cap hospital prices
The proposed bill would cap hospital prices at 200% of Medicare rates.
Posted inHealth, Local & State, News
Flu and winter storms causing blood shortages in Maine and nationwide
The American Red Cross is urging people to donate and help alleviate the worst shortfall since August 2024.
Posted inHealth, Local & State, News
The Trump administration has frozen Medicaid funding in Minnesota. Could Maine be next?
The action was taken following allegations of fraud that the president has claimed Maine and other states also allow.
Posted inHealth, Local & State, News
Maine’s primary care shortage is expected to worsen. Experts are planning solutions.
Maine is graduating more doctors, but experts say increasing the primary care workforce is hampered by several issues.
Posted inHealth, Local & State, News
Maine hospitals, health reform advocates spar over bill to regulate health care prices
Advocates say the measure would improve health care affordability. Hospital executives say it could lead to closures and service losses.
Posted inHealth, Local & State, News
Maine lawmakers hear testimony on bill to require notice before closure of maternity wards
The proposed bill would require hospitals to give 120 days notice.