Bill > SB829

This bill addresses Hawaii's ongoing healthcare provider shortage, particularly in rural areas and on neighbor islands like Maui, by modifying regulations for organized ambulatory health care facilities (outpatient medical centers). Specifically, the bill allows physicians to practice at these facilities without being required to have hospital privileges in the same geographic location, and eliminates the requirement for a written transfer agreement when transferring a patient from an ambulatory facility to a hospital. These changes are designed to reduce administrative barriers and improve healthcare access in medically underserved areas. The legislation was partly motivated by the 2023 Maui wildfires, which further stressed the island's healthcare system by forcing medical practices to relocate or close. By making it easier for physicians to work in these facilities, the bill aims to support healthcare provision in communities struggling with provider shortages, ultimately helping residents access necessary medical services without having to travel long distances.

Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=829&year=2025