HI HB2368

Appropriates an unspecified amount to establish a medical residency program at the University of Hawaii at Hilo

Aims to reduce physician shortages in Hawaii's rural areas and neighbor islands by increasing the likelihood that program graduates will continue practicing in these communities

Committee recommends considering alternative funding sources including a portion of the physician workforce assessment fee (per S.B. No. 240, S.D. 2, Regular Session of 2011) or budgeting as a line item under the Hawaii Health Systems Corporation

Received support from Hilo Medical Center Foundation, Hawaii Health Systems Corporation, Hawaii Island Healthcare Alliance, and 42 individuals

Committee recommends passage to Second Reading and referral to the Committee on Ways and Means while noting the University of Hawaii at Hilo may not be the appropriate entity to house the program