As a family physician in Oxford County, I support passage of Question 2, Medicaid expansion, on Nov. 7. A “yes” vote will help 70,000 Mainers gain access to much-needed medical care.
As a doctor on the front lines, I know that health insurance and access to basic medical care can be life-saving. I regularly encounter patients who forgo medically-necessary testing or treatment due to cost. One of my middle-aged patients told me his story of how he erupted into tears of joy when he found out he qualified for Medicaid; he is now able to get the care he needs for his breathing difficulties.
A “yes” vote is also extremely valuable to the state’s economy: Passage could lead to an additional 6,000 or more jobs. It also helps the state budget and brings $500 million in revenue to Maine. It will also prop up Maine’s struggling hospitals, many of which lost money in 2016.
For Maine people, Maine communities, and Maine’s economy, I hope others will join me in voting “yes” on Question 2 this Election Day.
Dr. Ben Hagopian, South Portland
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