HI HB1446

Appropriates funds as a grant to Wahiawa General Hospital pursuant to chapter 42F, Hawaii Revised Statutes, for fiscal year 2017-2018 to support basic operations, staff salaries and benefits, and continued hospitalist physician services.

Finds that Wahiawa General Hospital has experienced severe financial difficulties due to reduced insurance reimbursement rates, the reopening of competing facilities, physician shortages in central Oahu, increased indigent care caseload, and loss of over $7,500,000 in revenue by the end of fiscal year 2015.

Notes that over 85 percent of Wahiawa General Hospital's patients are covered by Medicare or Medicaid, which provide reimbursements insufficient to offset care costs, forcing the hospital to absorb net losses.

Recognizes Wahiawa General Hospital as the only emergency medical services provider for an area encompassing nearly one-third of Oahu and the largest private employer in central Oahu with over 600 employees.

Takes effect on July 1, 2090.