HI HCR67

Requests the Disability and Communication Access Board to study communication needs of deaf, hard of hearing, and deaf-blind individuals in healthcare settings, including hospitals and skilled nursing facilities.

Study must examine availability of sign language interpreters, tactile interpreters, and other auxiliary aids serving these communities in Hawaii, which currently faces a shortage of qualified interpreters.

Healthcare providers are legally required under Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act and Hawaii Revised Statutes Chapter 489 to provide auxiliary aids and services for effective communication with patients who have communication disabilities.

Board is requested to revise its current guidance document for healthcare providers based on study findings to better address patient communication needs and preferences.

Report with findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation must be submitted to the Legislature no later than twenty days prior to the 2027 Regular Session.