LD 1285, An Act to Provide Family Security through Quality, Affordable Health Care, the plan proposing health care reform in Maine, is running out of steam and the sponsor and the governor are proposing more studies and commissions to continue the debate on health care.

Maine must be ready to effectively respond to a national health care reform package when passed by Congress, but it is the opinion of this legislator that wasting the taxpayer’s money and the valuable time of volunteers and legislators and industry representatives is not a wise use of resources.

We all concede reform is in order. The sponsors of LD 1285 and their coalitions have spent tremendous time and effort defining their vision of health care reform. Many agree access and affordability are the key issues. Coverage and cost containment are most important.

I am convinced the insurance industry and health care providers have access to the answers. They hold all the information and have the ability to recognize the efficiencies and inefficiencies of the best health care system in the world.

I believe it’s time for the health care providers and the insurance companies to join the debate and provide solutions. The Legislature has exhibited an extensive outline of various concerns and expectations. Providers and insurers should present a bill given the guidlines of recent discussions on the state and federal levels reforming Maine’s health care system. This bill should be drafted as thoroughly and thoughtfully as LD 1285 and in a format ready for work in the 117th Legislature.

The health care industry holds the key to complex solutions. It’s time for them to stop complaining about governmental intervention and pay their attorneys and lobbyists to draft a bill providing access and cost containment for the scrutiny of an already well-educated Legislature.

Rep. Richard Campbell

District 121

Holden