01.21.2020 / Press Release

Robyn Merrill Honored as Families USA’s Consumer Experience Health Advocate of the Year

Washington, D.C., January 21, 2020 – Robyn Merrill, Executive Director of Maine Equal Justice, has been recognized as Families USA’s Consumer Experience Health Advocate of the Year. She will officially receive her award Friday, January 24 at an awards luncheon during the organization’s 2020 Health Action Conference in Washington, D.C.

Merrill was selected for her exemplary work championing for better health care in Maine. She has worked at Maine Equal Justice since 2009, spearheading the organization’s efforts to represent the interests of people in economic need before the courts, governmental agencies and the legislature.  She also oversees its work conducting policy research and analysis, advocating with federal and state policymakers and offering education and training to community members and health and social service providers. Under Merrill’s leadership, Maine Equal Justice worked in coalition with hundreds of organizations and individuals to expand Medicaid in Maine and provide health coverage for over 70,000 Mainers.

“Throughout her time at Maine Equal Justice, Robyn has ensured that the experiences of families are at the center of policymaking in the state by working in collaboration with consumers, political leaders and service providers,” said Frederick Isasi, Families USA executive director. “Her efforts leading the charge helped thousands of Maine residents gain access to health coverage.”

Each year during its Health Action Conference, Families USA honors the efforts of state and community leaders in advancing social justice through health care advocacy. Awards are presented in recognition of the organization’s four focus areas: Health Equity, Health Care Value, Coverage and Consumer Experience.