Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SR18

Introduced
2/9/26  
Introduced
2/10/26  
Refer
2/13/26  
Report Pass
4/8/26  

Caption

Requesting The Hawaii Health Systems Corporation's East Hawaii Regional Health Care System To Conduct A Feasibility Study On Establishing A Rural Health Clinic Or Comparable Rural Health Access Point To Serve The Volcano Community.

Impact

The impact of this resolution on state laws could be significant, as it lays the groundwork for enhancing healthcare infrastructure in underserved areas. By advocating for the establishment of a Rural Health Clinic, SR18 could facilitate better healthcare accessibility, thereby aligning with broader health equity goals across the state. The resolution emphasizes the need for partnerships with local organizations and suggests operational models like telehealth and mobile clinics to ensure that healthcare delivery is both innovative and responsive to community needs.

Summary

Senate Resolution 18 (SR18) seeks to address the pressing healthcare needs of the Volcano community in Hawaii by requesting the Hawaiʻi Health Systems Corporation's East Hawaiʻi Regional Health Care System to conduct a feasibility study on establishing a Rural Health Clinic or comparable health access point. This proposed clinic aims to serve the residents of Volcano, which is currently one of the largest rural population centers on Hawaiʻi Island lacking access to adequate primary care services, further exacerbated by geographic isolation, limited transportation, and increased hazards from wildfires and volcanic activity.

Sentiment

Overall sentiment towards SR18 appears to be positive, with a recognition of the community's healthcare challenges and the urgent need for solutions. Stakeholders, including the Volcano Community Association, express readiness to collaborate in identifying suitable clinic sites and supporting the recruitment of healthcare providers. This collective willingness indicates a strong community support framework that underscores the resolution's importance and timeliness.

Contention

While there is general support for SR18, potential points of contention could arise during the feasibility study regarding funding sources, operational logistics, and the integration of services within existing healthcare frameworks. It will be crucial to balance community input with organizational capabilities and legislative oversight to ensure that the proposed health access point meets the diverse needs of residents and visitors alike.

Companion Bills

HI SCR21

Same As Requesting The Hawaii Health Systems Corporation's East Hawaii Regional Health Care System To Conduct A Feasibility Study On Establishing A Rural Health Clinic Or Comparable Rural Health Access Point To Serve The Volcano Community.

Previously Filed As

HI SB1441

Relating To The Transition Of The Oahu Regional Health Care System From The Hawaii Health Systems Corporation Into The Department Of Health.

HI HB1122

Relating To The Transition Of The Oahu Regional Health Care System From The Hawaii Health Systems Corporation Into The Department Of Health.

HI HCR41

Requesting The Auditor To Conduct A Social And Financial Assessment Of Proposed Mandatory Health Insurance Coverage For Native Hawaiian Healing And Cultural Practices Offered Through Federally Qualified Health Centers Or Native Hawaiian Health Care Systems.

HI HCR13

Requesting The Auditor To Conduct A Social And Financial Assessment Of Proposed Mandatory Health Insurance Coverage For Traditional Native Hawaiian Healing And Cultural Practices Offered Through Federally Qualified Health Centers Or Native Hawaiian Health Care Systems.

HI SR61

Requesting The Hawaii Community Development Authority To Initiate The Planning Of A Health Tech Hub In Kakaako To Accelerate The Adoption Of Health Care Technology And Promote The Development And Growth Of Hawaii's Highly Skilled Health Care Workforce.

HI SR91

Requesting The Hawaii State Energy Office To Conduct A Study Evaluating The Feasibility Of Establishing A Green Bonds Program In The State.

HI HR214

Honoring The Recipients Of The 2024 Healthcare Association Of Hawaii Healthcare Heroes Award.

HI SCR78

Requesting The Hawaii Community Development Authority To Initiate The Planning Of A Health Tech Hub In Kakaako To Accelerate The Adoption Of Health Care Technology And Promote The Development And Growth Of Hawaii's Highly Skilled Health Care Workforce.

HI HCR116

Requesting The Hawaii Community Development Authority To Initiate The Planning Of A Health Tech Hub In Kakaako To Accelerate The Adoption Of Health Care Technology And Promote The Development And Growth Of Hawaii's Highly Skilled Health Care Workforce.

HI SCR110

Requesting The Hawaii State Energy Office To Conduct A Study Evaluating The Feasibility Of Establishing A Green Bonds Program In The State.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.