The penalties are part of an effort to improve patient safety by the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
Joe Lawlor
Staff Writer
Joe Lawlor writes about health and human services for the Press Herald. A 24-year newspaper veteran, Lawlor has worked in Ohio, Michigan and Virginia before relocating to Maine in 2013 to join the Press Herald. He is still considered “from away” but since then, he has learned what a “dooryard” is, eaten “whoopie pies” drank Moxie and boiled some “lobstahs.” The stories he enjoys most are when he learns something and meeting inspiring people.
He lives in South Portland - aka “SoPo” - with his wife, Melanie, and two school-age children.
Posted inBusiness, Health, Local & State, News
MaineHealth forms new partnership with cancer specialist Dana-Farber
The deal gives Maine patients access to research trials and connects them to the nationally recognized treatment center.
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Posted inHealth, Local & State, News
With more vaccinations, Maine’s health ranking improves to 15th in nation
The jump from 20th in the 2014 America’s Health Rankings report is due in part to Maine’s much-improved immunization rates for toddlers, health experts say.
Posted inLocal & State, News
Eliot man’s overdose death drives his family to push for more access to treatment
Relatives of Michael Fielders, 31, start an online petition to urge state and federal officials to take action to prevent more deaths.
Posted inLocal & State, News
Former Wells teacher Bob Sprankle, chronic pain sufferer who fought for disability reforms, dies at 52
Sprankle, who was unable to work because of chronic lower abdominal pain, was twice denied benefits.
Posted inBusiness, Health
Anthem to end individual health plans that don’t comply with Affordable Care Act
Replacing the old policies, which pre-date Obamacare, will save most customers money on premiums, the insurer says.
Posted inLocal & State, News
Teen birth rate plummets in Maine, U.S. Census says
The Maine rate is nearly half of what it was a decade ago, but more unmarried women are having kids.
Posted inLocal & State, News
Portland unveils new heroin intervention program
A substance abuse liaison will be hired, but experts say funding for long-term treatment must be found.
Posted inCops & Courts, Local & State, News
Portland police to offer drug users a link to treatment
The city hopes to help users beat their addictions as it battles a heroin crisis, though treatment options are limited.
Posted inLocal & State, News
Ex-patient who was pepper-sprayed, restrained at Riverview hospital sues state
The attorney for Arlene Edson hopes a settlement can be reached that pays for his client’s treatment in a private setting.