The Maine Public Broadcasting Network's Speaking in Maine has aired two health policy colloquia hosted by the USM Muskie School in April.

Karen Pearson and Erika Ziller each presented findings from their research on The Evidence for Community Paramedicine in Rural Areas and Rural Implementation and Impact of Medicaid. John Gale gave two presentations on Rural Health Clinics (Identifying Relevant Quality Measures and Readiness for Practice Transformation) as well as on Critical Access Hospital Community Activities under Health Reform. Zach Croll displayed his findings from the Critical Access Hospital Community Benefit project as part of the NRHA poster session.

The Muskie School of Public Service hosted two health policy colloquia this April to promote informed discussion throughout the state regarding MaineCare coverage options under the ACA and the implications of Vermont’s move toward a single-payer system.The series, sponsored by the Muskie School Board of Visitors, examines critical policy issues within the state and nation.

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) requires Health Insurance Exchanges (HIEs) to specify network adequacy standards for the Qualified Health Plans (QHPs) they offer to consumers. This article, authored by research staff at the Maine Rural Health Research Center, USM Muskie School, examines rural issues surrounding network adequacy standards, and offers recommendations for crafting standards that optimize rural access.