Recently, U.S. Surgeon General Regina Benjamin paid a visit to Maine as the second anniversary of the Affordable Care Act approached.

The ACA has helped numerous Mainers, including myself. The past few years have been a trying time to find a decent job, much less one that provides health benefits. The ACA was a blessing to those of us who could then remain or re-enroll in our parents’ employer-provided health insurance. Although unfortunate that eligibility ceases at age 26, it was helpful for me to have access to preventative care at little to no out-of-pocket cost to myself.

During her remarks, the surgeon general repeated and echoed what many already know: that prevention and early detection are essential, and astronomically aid in saving countless lives every year. Long, productive lives start early on with healthy habits and good routines, including regular visits with a primary care physician.

It is imperative that younger adults have access to quality health care. At such a stage in their lives, health care is often cost-prohibitive, or other circumstances, such as student loans, are cost-prohibitive to gaining access to health insurance.

Rachel Sukeforth, Litchfield

Editor’s note: Rachel Sukeforth is a candidate for Legislative District 80.