The recent state budget that excludes MaineCare patients from treatment at privately owned surgicenters is an example of a counterproductive health care policy that was never fully thought out.

Now, physicians who are committed to serving that segment must arrange for those procedures to be done at a hospital, often after hours, even though doctors have the time to do them in the office setting where it would be considerably less expensive.

The end result is a less efficient, more expensive system and a greater likelihood that physicians will refuse to accept MaineCare patients.

Everyone loses.

Legislators are needed who will take a thoughtful and constructive approach to the MaineCare crisis.

Peggy Rotundo and Margaret Craven have consistently been well informed and understanding of the complexities of the health care system. The state has been well served by those two public servants and I endorse them for re-election.

Paul Cain, Auburn