HI HR70

Requests the Department of Health to convene a Complex Needs Patient Working Group to address services and funding for patients with multiple significant (but not severe) co-occurring conditions including substance use disorders, mental health disorders, and chronic physical illnesses.

Approximately 54,000 adults in Hawaii have co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders, often coupled with chronic physical illnesses, who frequently cycle through fragmented care systems resulting in emergency room visits, hospitalizations, justice system involvement, and homelessness.

The Director of Health would chair the working group, with members from the Hawaii Substance Abuse Coalition, substance use and mental health providers, and health care facilities to develop collaborative processes between agencies.

The working group would consider integrated residential treatment facilities, medication-assisted treatment, mental health services, primary care coordination, peer support, and assistance with housing and employment.

A report with findings and proposed legislation is due to the Legislature no later than 20 days before the Regular Session of 2027.