Dirigo Health holds promise to bring affordable health coverage to tens of thousands of Mainers now uninsured.

Gov. John Baldacci, legislators and all involved deserve congratulations for creating a new program that can help assure all Mainers have health insurance. The plan is not perfect from any individual perspective, but it is a good blend of ideas that holds the potential for making health insurance affordable for all.

The success of this plan will depend upon the goodwill and commitment of many:

• Small employers willing to implement the program and pay some of the cost;

• Employees of small businesses willing to pay part of the cost of health insurance;

• Health organizations, professionals and insurers willing to help moderate costs;

• Government willing to lead health reform, but not dominate health professionals and organizations;

• Government willing to help some of the public with the burden of health care insurance costs;

• Everyone willing to take more responsibility for personal actions to improve his or her own health, thereby moderating health insurance costs; and

• Patients, doctors and the public willing to use services wisely in ways promoting both quality and cost effectiveness.

Many issues will have to be overcome to achieve the goal of equal access for all. Through collaboration and the commitment of all we can reach this goal.

Richard Batt, president,

Franklin Community Health Network and Franklin Memorial Hospital,

Farmington