Bill > HR187

This 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 successfully implemented in California and Japan. The resolution recognizes that hospitals and healthcare facilities generate substantial medical waste through single-use surgical instruments, which contributes to environmental pollution and landfill overflow. It highlights that reprocessing and reusing surgical equipment can lead to significant cost savings while maintaining high-quality patient care and aligning with the state's commitment to environmental stewardship. Specifically, the resolution urges the Department of Health to develop guidelines for reducing disposable surgical equipment, encourages hospitals to partner with medical equipment sterilization companies, and requests a comprehensive report detailing the feasibility, potential cost savings, and environmental benefits of reducing disposable surgical equipment usage. The report is to be submitted to the Legislature prior to 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=HR&billnumber=187&year=2025