Bill > SB483

This bill seeks to address declining reimbursement rates and workforce challenges in home health services by appropriating $500,000 to the Department of Human Services to conduct a comprehensive rate study for Medicaid home health services in Hawaii. The bill highlights significant issues in the home health sector, including Medicare funding cuts, financial losses for home health agencies (with agencies losing an average of $1,186 per Medicaid patient), and a critically high 39% vacancy rate for healthcare positions in home health settings. The proposed rate study aims to provide a foundation for informed decision-making about Medicaid reimbursement rates, with the ultimate goal of supporting the continued delivery of high-quality, accessible home health services. Home health services, as defined in the bill, include skilled medical care like physical and occupational therapy, wound care, and management of complex chronic conditions, typically provided by nurses and therapists to homebound individuals recovering from surgery or acute illnesses. The appropriated funds will be used over two fiscal years (2025-2026 and 2026-2027), and the bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=483&year=2026