Most often when we talk about efforts to address ongoing problems, the conversation turns to the work that remains to be done. With Dirigo Health, we talk about the number of people who still lack health insurance. With unemployment, we talk about the people for whom benefits have run out. With MaineCare, we talk about the people whose coverage is threatened by cuts being made on the national level.

With the release last week of the Kids Count Data Book, we should pause for a moment to consider what has been accomplished in Maine, with much of the credit due to the state’s progressive and aggressive efforts to provide health care to vulnerable populations and, particularly, children.

Maine has the lowest infant mortality rate in the country, with 4.4 deaths per thousand live births. The national average is seven deaths per thousand. The state also does well in the rankings for the number of low-birthweight babies, child and teen death rates and teenage pregnancy. Overall, the state ranks seventh for the well-being of its children.

Giving children a healthy start on life doesn’t happen by accident. It has taken a continued, determined effort on the part of state lawmakers and taxpayers to provide quality health care, schools and sex education.

The report also points to weak spots in achievement, including high school dropout rates and the number of children living in poverty, which has increased during the past three years.

Tough budgets and reduced federal support will place increasing pressure on the state to cut back on its efforts to protect children. During that debate, the tendency will be to draw upon the places where we have fallen short, where there is still great need, to make the case for continued effort. But showing how much has been accomplished is also persuasive. Advocates for a strong social safety net shouldn’t be afraid to talk about the things the state does right. The success stories show what can be accomplished.