HI SCR4

Requests the Department of Health to establish a state health plan initiative to reduce occurrences of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in Hawaii

Identifies COPD as the third leading cause of death in the United States, killing more than 120,000 persons annually and costing an estimated $50 billion in direct and indirect expenses in 2010

Notes that while COPD is progressive, it is preventable and treatable through early screening and detection

Aims to reduce the State's future health care expenditures and improve overall well-being of Hawaii residents through preventive measures

Received support from the Department of Health, Hawaii COPD Coalition, and individual testimony during committee review