Transportation pilot for older Mainers, people with disabilities passes committee
Members of the Maine Legislature’s Health and Human Services Committee voted unanimously on Thursday to advance a proposed pilot program that would give seniors and Mainers with disabilities rides for non-medical errands, such as going to the grocery store or pharmacy.
Ten Democratic and Republican members of the committee, with three members absent and none opposed, voted to advance the bill for a vote in the Maine Senate.
The measure, sponsored by state Sen. Chloe Maxmin (D-Lincoln), would direct the Department of Health and Human Services to create an 18-month pilot project allowing those covered under MaineCare’s Section 19 to receive up to $2,000 in non-medical transportation services if the person has no other means of transportation and if transportation is identified in their plan of care. Section 19 includes adults with disabilities and older Mainers who qualify for nursing home level care but are living at home.
The bill also stipulates that DHHS provide written notice to those who would qualify and submit a report evaluating the long-term viability of the program.
Read more: https://mainebeacon.com/transportation-pilot-for-older-mainers-people-with-disabilities-passes-committee/