Hawaii Senate Bill SCR150

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/11/22
• Refer: 3/16/22

Caption

Requesting The Hawaii Health Systems Corporation To Convene A Task Force To Identify The Need And, If Applicable, Conduct A Site Assessment For A New Hospital In North Kona.

Impact

If enacted, SCR150 will mobilize a task force to review findings from prior feasibility studies conducted in response to earlier resolutions that addressed similar concerns for healthcare in West Hawaii. The task force is tasked with not only evaluating the need for a new hospital but also with collaborating with other state departments to evaluate potential sites for its construction, thereby potentially streamlining healthcare access for a growing population. The findings from this effort will subsequently inform legislative recommendations aimed at addressing local healthcare requirements.

Summary

SCR150 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution requesting the Hawaii Health Systems Corporation to convene a task force aimed at assessing the need for a new hospital in North Kona, Hawaii. Given the significant demographic growth in the area and the corresponding increase in demand for medical services, the resolution underscores the immediate need for local healthcare facilities. The existing Kona Community Hospital is currently strained, with a bed capacity that has been overwhelmed. This situation, exacerbated by logistical challenges and staffing shortages highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic, has necessitated such a proposal.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise surrounding the funding, timeline, and execution of the proposed measures. Questions about resource allocation for a new facility, particularly in relation to the existing Kona Community Hospital and the implications for local health services, may spark discussions among stakeholders. Additionally, the involvement of various leaders from the health system and local government in the task force reflects a broader effort to involve community voices in healthcare planning, which could lead to debates about stakeholder priorities and community needs.