HI SCR142

Department of Health is requested to convene a working group with assistance from Kōkua Mau and American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network to examine and expand palliative care services in Hawaii.

Working group must examine current palliative care services, provider capacity, geographic gaps, collaboration opportunities, financial feasibility, data gathering plans, public education strategies, and other improvement strategies.

Working group is directed to collaborate with hospice organizations, healthcare associations, health care facilities, insurers, patient advocacy groups, and other public health groups.

Working group must submit findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2019 Regular Session convenes.

Working group may convene annually or as needed after submitting its initial report to discuss and update findings and recommendations.