Vital Signs: More Mainers lack health insurance

The share of Mainers without health insurance rose from 2012 to 2013, making the state one of just two nationally to record an increase, new U.S. Census data show.

Experts debated the reasons for the increase, but one analyst said the state’s decision to limit MaineCare eligibility may have contributed. Maine residents also may have had less access to health benefits through their jobs.

The data — which predates implementation of new health insurance options under the Affordable Care Act — worried consumer advocates who warn that people without coverage face poorer health outcomes and financial insecurity.

Census: More Maine residents without health insurance

Other top health stories this week:

Premiums for Obamacare plans in Maine dip or remain flat for 2015

Mainers who buy insurance through Healthcare.gov can expect to pay less or the same amount on average each month for benefits taking effect next year.

Maine child being tested for respiratory virus spreading in Northeast

A respiratory virus that has sickened nearly 100 people across the United States may have infected at least one child in Maine.

From our bloggers

Diane Atwood, Catching Health

Never Too Old to Get Mono

When older people get mono, they usually have slightly different symptoms than if they were much younger.

Jackie Conn, Sooner or Lighter

Did You Know that Cavemen Ate Wraps? Paleo Diet Isn’t For Me!

Much of what’s involved in this fad is, at best, clever marketing and at the worst, expensive and nutritionally challenged.

Compiled by BDN Health Editor Jackie Farwell

 

 

Jackie Farwell

About Jackie Farwell

I'm the health editor for the Bangor Daily News, a Bangor native, a UMaine grad, and a weekend crossword warrior. I never get sick of writing about Maine people, geeking out over health care data, and finding new ways to help you stay well. I live in Gorham with my husband Nick and our hound dog Riley.