Hawaii Senate Bill SCR180

Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/23
• Refer: 3/15/23

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Health To Convene A Working Group To Prepare And Develop Solutions And Make Recommendations For The Recruitment And Retention Of Nurses To Address The Shortage Of The Nursing And Health Care Workforce In The State.

Impact

The resolution requests the Department of Health to form a working group composed of key healthcare stakeholders, including representatives from various nursing associations and health organizations. The group's mission will be to develop actionable recommendations aimed at bolstering the recruitment and retention of nurses in the state. This strategic initiative is seen as essential to safeguarding the health system's capacity to serve Hawaii's communities effectively.

Summary

SCR180 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution aimed at addressing the critical shortage of nurses and other healthcare workers in Hawaii, a problem that has worsened due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The resolution emphasizes the pivotal role of nurses, nurse aides, and healthcare personnel in providing quality care, noting the personal sacrifices they have made during the pandemic. It underscores the importance of improving workplace conditions for healthcare workers to enhance both their quality of life and the quality of care provided to patients.

Contention

Key proposals for consideration by the working group include the establishment of minimum staff-to-patient ratios in hospitals and care facilities, and the requirement for hospitals to form staffing committees and develop comprehensive staffing plans. Additionally, the working group will explore potential provisions for adequate meal breaks, rest periods, and overtime protections for healthcare workers. While the resolution seeks to enhance working conditions, it is also expected to prompt discussions regarding funding and resource allocation to ensure these changes can be implemented effectively.