HI HCR18

Department of Health requested to convene a Hospice Working Group to study trends and regulations in the hospice industry, with a report due 20 days before the 2027 legislative session.

Working group membership to include the Director of Health, State Health Planning and Development Agency Administrator, Med-QUEST Division Administrator, Executive Office on Aging Director, and five representatives from hospices operating in Hawaii since before 2000.

Hawaii currently has only 13 hospices statewide, while projections indicate one in four Hawaii residents will be 60 years or older by 2035, creating increased demand for end-of-life care services.

Group tasked with examining national hospice industry trends, reviewing existing Hawaii hospice regulations, and recommending regulatory changes to ensure quality care while meeting demand in rural and underserved communities.

Working group requested to dissolve on June 30, 2027.