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Healthcare and Health Insurance in Maine | Expat Exchange
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11 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Maine

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Feb 12, 2023

Summary: The quality of medical care in Maine is generally considered to be on par with the rest of the United States. Maine has a wide range of medical facilities, from small rural clinics to large urban hospitals, and the quality of care is generally good. Emergency services are also well-developed, with a network of ambulances and emergency medical technicians (EMTs) available to respond to medical emergencies. To call for an ambulance, dial 911.

Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health

How are healthcare services Maine?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Maine, they replied:

"Maine offers a wide range of healthcare services, including primary care, specialty care, mental health services, and preventive care. The state is home to a number of excellent hospitals and medical facilities, including Maine Medical Center in Portland, Eastern Maine Medical Center in Bangor, and Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston. These hospitals offer a variety of services, including emergency care, surgery, and rehabilitation. In addition, Maine has a number of community health centers, which provide primary care and preventive services to underserved populations," said one expat living in Maine.

What are medical services in Maine like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Maine, they replied:

"Maine offers a wide range of medical services to its residents. The state has a comprehensive network of hospitals, clinics, and health centers that provide quality care to patients. Maine also has a strong network of primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare professionals who are dedicated to providing the best possible care to their patients. Additionally, Maine has a variety of programs and services designed to help individuals and families access the care they need, including Medicaid, Medicare, and other insurance programs," commented one expat living in Maine.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Maine?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Maine can be expensive. The cost of health insurance premiums in Maine is higher than the national average, and the cost of healthcare services can also be high. Additionally, Maine has some of the highest out-of-pocket costs for healthcare services in the country. As a result, many people in Maine struggle to afford the cost of healthcare and health insurance," said one expat.

What are emergency services like in Maine?

When we asked about emergency services, members in Maine wrote:

"In Maine, emergency services are provided by the Maine Emergency Medical Services (MEMS). MEMS provides emergency medical care, including ambulance services, to the citizens of Maine. To call for an ambulance, you can dial 911 or contact your local emergency services provider. The dispatcher will ask for your location and the nature of the emergency, and will then send an ambulance to your location," wrote one expat.

Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

"Maine's largest cities, Portland and Bangor, offer a wide array of medical specialists, as well as highly rated hospitals. Northern Maine's Presque Isle is home to the Northern Maine Medical Center, providing specialized care for the region. Midcoast Maine, including areas like Camden and Bath, have a number of excellent medical facilities with knowledgeable medical specialists. Downeast, Ellsworth and its neighboring communities offer an abundance of medical specialists and resources. Additionally, many small towns throughout Maine have medical facilities with excellent medical specialists," commented one expat living in Maine.

Are common prescription medications available in Maine?

"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Maine. Pharmacies throughout the state carry a wide variety of medications, including both brand-name and generic drugs. Many pharmacies also offer mail-order services, allowing customers to order their medications online and have them delivered directly to their homes. Additionally, many health insurance plans cover prescription medications, making them more affordable for Maine residents," commented one expat who moved to Maine.

Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Maine?

"Medical care in Maine is highly rated and provides excellent service to patients. In 2019, Maine hospitals scored higher than the national average in quality of patient care, patient outcomes and patient experience. Many hospitals in Maine are accredited by the Joint Commission and are equipped with modern-day medical equipment, making sure that patients receive the best care possible. Maine also has a 24-hour emergency medical service, so medical needs can be addressed as soon as possible. Additionally, Maine is home to many highly trained and experienced medical specialists, ensuring quality medical care for all patients," wrote one expat.

As a foreigner living in Maine, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?

"Yes, as a foreigner living in Maine, you will have access to public healthcare. Maine's public healthcare system is called MaineCare and it provides health coverage to eligible individuals and families. MaineCare covers a wide range of services, including doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription drugs, mental health services, and more. The program is funded by both the state and federal government, and is designed to provide quality healthcare to those who need it most," wrote one expat.

What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?

We asked expats in Maine if they have access to public healthcare in Maine. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...

"My experiences with the local healthcare system in Maine during the pandemic have been largely positive. The healthcare providers in my area have been very responsive to my needs and have been willing to answer any questions I have had. I have been able to access telehealth services when needed, and the staff have been very accommodating and helpful. I have also been able to access testing and other services when needed, and the staff have been very understanding and accommodating. Overall, I have been very pleased with the level of care I have received from the local healthcare system during the pandemic," remarked one expat living in Maine.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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