It is almost a maxim that you will die if you don't have health insurance. Fortunately, this view is yet another import from newcomers. Many Mainers live healthy lifestyles and pay for their health care as needed, and draw upon savings for catastrophic health.  They have always had 'medical saving's accounts'. They are careful and exercise preventative health care practices. The ranks of the uninsured include many of these people. For the poor there is Medicaid; for seniors there is Medicare and supplemental insurance, i.e. long term nursing, dental, drug, etc.

Unfortunately, there are many who cannot or will not have a healthy lifestyle and require some form of insurance that is 'affordable'. That is how Blue Cross (health care) and Blue Shield (inpatient care) was created in the 1930's. It was indeed, the 'people's health care plan' and was created by the legislature. If you want to read of the history of what is regarded as one of Maine's most beloved companies, try this link.

Anthem/Blue Cross's perspective on the high cost of their insurance.

The Maine Bureau of Insurance Regulation's guide to insurance

NEW ALTERNATIVES...insurance plans driven by market & risk and tailored to individual needs...but will they be able to do business in Maine?