Bill > HCR194

This concurrent resolution requests the Hawaii Department of Health to reduce the use of disposable surgical equipment and adopt more sustainable healthcare practices, drawing inspiration from approaches implemented in California and Japan. The resolution acknowledges the significant environmental and economic impacts of single-use surgical instruments, which contribute to medical waste and landfill overflow. It urges the Department of Health to develop guidelines for reducing disposable surgical equipment usage, encourages hospitals and medical centers to explore partnerships with medical equipment sterilization companies, and requests a comprehensive report detailing the feasibility, potential cost savings, and environmental benefits of this initiative. The resolution highlights that adopting reusable and reprocessed surgical equipment can lead to substantial cost savings while maintaining high-quality patient care and aligning with the state's commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The Department of Health is requested to submit this report to the Legislature twenty days before the 2026 Regular Session, with copies of the resolution to be transmitted to the Governor and the Director of Health.

Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HCR&billnumber=194&year=2025