There is no question that our nation’s health care system requires substantial reform. The status quo of soaring medical and prescription drug costs, struggling families, and health care provider shortages across Maine and the nation is unacceptable. I frequently work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to address these and other important issues facing our nation, such as enhancing mental health care, expanding drug treatment programs, supporting America’s caregivers, and improving nutrition programs.
As a native of Northern Maine, I understand the specific challenges that rural communities face to receive medical care. Throughout my time in the Senate, I have consistently supported programs to improve and expand access to the health care system, particularly for citizens living in rural areas.
In 1997, I founded the Senate Diabetes Caucus and have led the effort to more than triple federal funding for diabetes research. As the founder and co-chair of the Congressional Task Force on Alzheimer ’s Disease, I have worked to increase funding for Alzheimer’s research and to strengthen support for family caregivers. I have also championed efforts to lower the cost of prescription drugs and launched the Senate’s first bipartisan investigation into the causes, impacts, and potential solutions to these egregious price increases.