HI SB397

Appropriates funds to increase Medicaid reimbursements to eligible health care providers in Hawaii up to 100% of current Medicare fee schedule rates for fiscal years 2023-2024 and 2024-2025

Addresses Hawaii's healthcare provider shortage, noting a 2022 shortfall of over 750 full-time physicians and nearly 4,000 other patient-facing healthcare workers

Recognizes that lower Medicaid reimbursement rates compared to Medicare or commercial insurance discourage providers from accepting Medicaid patients, limiting access to care

Prioritizes rate increases for home and community-based service providers including case management agencies, community care foster family homes, and adult day health centers that have not received updates in extended periods

Appropriations shall not lapse at end of fiscal year but any unencumbered funds remaining as of June 30, 2025 shall lapse on that date