Among the many laws that went into effect this month was the Dirigo Health bill. The purpose of this law is to assure that all Maine people have health care coverage and access to practitioners. The Maine Osteopathic Association has supported the intent of this legislation.

Central to its success will be the role of physicians and other health providers throughout the state. In Maine, there are 600 osteopathic physicians. Almost two thirds of them provide primary care (general internal medicine, family medicine and pediatrics) every day. Many are located in some of our most rural areas.

National Osteopathic Medicine (NOM) Week is celebrated each year to raise awareness about osteopathic medicine and to encourage people to live healthier lives. It seems appropriate, with the convergence of the legislation for the Dirigo Health plan and NOM Week to address the important role of osteopathic medicine.

It is interesting to note that in an era marked by technological medical advances, from state-of-the-art surgery to the newest prescription medication, the unique tool osteopathic physicians use is their hands. Through techniques of manipulative medicine, they have an added dimension to bring to the care of patients.

This year, the Maine Osteopathic Association will join others nationwide in observing this important week, Sept. 20-27.

Osteopathic physicians believe that the whole person, including their home, work and social environment, plays a significant role in health. I invite you to learn more about the osteopathic profession.

Joel Kase, Auburn