Proposal would replace state-run Hawaii health system

A measure to abolish a statewide health-care system and temporarily transfer its 13 hospitals to the state Department of Health was under consideration by a legislative conference committee at the end of April despite overwhelming opposition from Hawaii health-care leaders including the DOH director and residents. Because of this opposition, it appeared unlikely that the measure would succeed.

Senate Bill 1673 would establish a special committee to recommend a new permanent structure to replace the Hawaii Health Systems Corp. and the regional boards established just two years ago.

Lawmakers see the measure as the best way to keep afloat a system that is considered to be the state’s health-care safety net. The transfer of ownership, including all certificates, licenses and permits, would have to happen July 1, a deadline that state Department of Health Director Chiyome Fukino calls unrealistic and burdensome because it entangles multiple state and federal regulatory agencies.