HI HB1446

Appropriates funds from general revenues as a grant to Wahiawa General Hospital for fiscal year 2017-2018 to support basic operations, staff salaries and benefits, and continued hospitalist physician services.

Addresses Wahiawa General Hospital's severe financial difficulties caused by reopening of competing facility (The Queen's Medical Center West Oahu), reduced insurance reimbursement rates, physician shortage in central Oahu, and increased indigent care caseload.

Establishes that over 85% of Wahiawa General Hospital's patients are covered by Medicare or Medicaid, with reimbursement rates insufficient to cover actual costs of care.

Identifies Wahiawa General Hospital as the only emergency medical facility serving approximately one-third of Oahu island and the largest private employer in central Oahu with over 600 jobs.

Takes effect July 1, 2090 (effective date listed in bill).