HI SR190

Urges the Hawaii Health Systems Corporation to expand the Kau Rural Health Clinic to improve access to urgent care and outpatient behavioral health services.

Emphasizes that individuals with pre-existing mental health conditions are particularly vulnerable in emergencies and that COVID-19 isolation increased negative mental health effects, especially for adolescents and older adults.

Identifies rural health clinics as essential for addressing physician shortages in rural areas and increasing access to primary health services and preventative care through qualified practitioners including nurses, physician assistants, clinical psychologists, and social workers.

Notes that rural communities often have barriers to mental health services due to privacy concerns and social stigma, making expanded clinic access critical for serving Medicaid patients in underserved areas like Kau.

Requires transmission of a certified copy of the resolution to the Board of Directors of the Hawaii Health Systems Corporation.