Bill > SB829

This bill addresses healthcare provider shortages in Hawaii, particularly on neighbor islands and in rural areas, by modifying regulations for ambulatory health care facilities. Specifically, the bill removes two administrative requirements for physicians: they will no longer need to have hospital privileges in the same geographical location as their ambulatory facility, and they will not be required to have a written transfer agreement when transferring patients to a licensed hospital. The legislation was prompted by significant healthcare challenges, including a physician shortage exacerbated by the 2023 Maui wildfires, which damaged medical practices and facilities. An "organized ambulatory health care facility" (as defined in existing Hawaii law) can now more flexibly employ physicians who may not have traditional hospital affiliations, potentially improving healthcare access for medically underserved communities. The bill aims to reduce administrative barriers and support healthcare providers in reaching residents who might otherwise struggle to access medical services, especially on smaller islands or in remote areas where maintaining full-time medical practices can be challenging.

Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=829&year=2026