HI SR59

Encourages the University of Hawaii John A. Burns School of Medicine and Hawaii Health Systems Corporation to collaboratively study the impact and feasibility of creating a teaching hospital in west Hawaii.

Hawaii reported a shortage of 513 full-time equivalent physician positions in October 2018, with an estimated unmet need of 797 positions when adjusted for island geography and specialty-specific needs by county.

Notes that Hawaii island has a large medically underserved rural population and one of the fastest-growing residential populations in the state, while also serving large numbers of domestic and international visitors.

Requests a report of findings and recommendations, including any proposed legislation, to be submitted to the Legislature no later than twenty days prior to the convening of the 2020 Regular Session.

Directs that certified copies be transmitted to the University of Hawaii Board of Regents Chairperson, University of Hawaii President, Hawaii Health Systems Corporation CEO, and the Dean of the John A. Burns School of Medicine.