Bill > SB2589

This bill establishes the Hanai Memory Network Program within the Executive Office on Aging to address the growing concerns of dementia and cognitive impairment in Hawaii, particularly among its aging population. The program aims to create a statewide network by establishing "dementia care specialists," who are trained professionals providing community-based screening and care planning, and "memory clinics," which are partnerships with healthcare providers offering diagnostic and treatment services for cognitive impairment. The Hanai Memory Network will coordinate these specialists and clinics, develop a referral network and directory, provide training, and operate a public website for education and referrals, all to improve early detection, care coordination, and long-term support for individuals with dementia and their caregivers, while also collecting relevant data and reporting annually to the legislature. The bill also appropriates funds for fiscal year 2026-2027 to establish and implement this program, covering salaries for a program manager and dementia care specialists, as well as operational costs and partnerships for memory clinics.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=2589&year=2026