HI SCR21

Requests Hawaii Health Systems Corporation's East Hawaii Regional Health Care System to conduct a feasibility study on establishing a Rural Health Clinic or comparable health access point in the Volcano community on Hawaii Island.

The Volcano community lacks direct access to primary care services, emergency stabilization, or locally-based medical providers despite being one of the largest rural population centers on the island.

The feasibility study must examine potential clinic sites, operational models (including part-time provider service, mobile clinics, and telehealth), staffing requirements for at least two days per week of service, and startup and ongoing costs.

The study should also evaluate partnership opportunities with the Volcano Community Association, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, and local nonprofits, as well as benefits to emergency response and visitor safety given the millions of annual park visitors.

HHSC East Hawaii Region must submit the completed study with findings, recommendations, proposed legislation, and an implementation timeline to the Legislature no later than 20 days prior to the 2027 Regular Session.