Bill > SR147

This Resolution requests the Hawaii Health Systems Corporation, a state-run healthcare provider, to collaborate with the Ka Rural Health Community Association, Inc., a non-profit organization focused on rural healthcare access, to conduct a study. This study, known as a needs assessment, will investigate how much urgent care and outpatient behavioral health services are needed and how easily people in the Ka district can access them. The resolution highlights the particular vulnerability of individuals with pre-existing mental health conditions, especially during events like the COVID-19 pandemic, and emphasizes the crucial role of rural health clinics in providing essential services to underserved areas like the Ka district, particularly for Medicaid beneficiaries. The Hawaii Health Systems Corporation is further asked to report its findings and any legislative proposals to the Legislature by a specific date.