Bill > SB1179

This bill establishes a universal, single-payer health care system called Malama Care in Hawaii, designed to provide comprehensive health care coverage to all state residents. The legislation creates the Hawaii Health Authority, which will be responsible for developing and implementing the new health care system, with the goal of replacing existing health care coverage, including Medicare, Medicaid, and the Prepaid Health Care Act. The proposed system would cover a wide range of medical services without cost-sharing, including hospital care, surgical and medical benefits, preventive and chronic disease care, mental health services, dental and vision care, prescription drugs, and various diagnostic screenings. The bill mandates that hospitals will be funded through global budgets rather than fee-for-service models, and health care providers will be paid through a standardized fee schedule. To fund the program, the bill establishes a special Malama Care fund and appropriates $350,000 for initial administration. The system would take effect on July 1, 2025, contingent upon obtaining necessary federal waivers and approvals, with the ultimate aim of providing equitable, accessible, and affordable health care to all Hawaii residents.

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https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1179&year=2026