Our Issues
We remain committed to the cause of health care access for all and believe a strong primary care infrastructure, particularly for underserved and vulnerable populations, is essential for our island communities. We are focused on issues related to developing and sustaining that infrastructure, and preparing Community Health Centers for the future.
Patient-Centered Medical Home
One of the central elements for transforming the health care system is the Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH). This model of care creates a comprehensive support network of providers, care coordinators, and community organizations that work closely with patients to manage their health care. By focusing on informed and proactive patient care, the Patient-Centered Medical Home aims to not just improve health outcomes and reduce long-term costs, but to humanize health care again.
Key components of the medical home include meaningful use of electronic health records and data exchange; comprehensive, holistic care coordination; diverse partnerships among providers, hospitals, insurers, and government; and payment reforms that fairly compensate providers for the work they perform and results they produce (based on the distinct patient populations they care for).
All of these are essential to creating true medical homes, and we will work tirelessly with our members, partners, and policymakers to successfully bring these diverse elements together.
Health Care Reform
The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) contains numerous provisions that will expand access to care for thousands of Hawai‘i residents and improve quality of care through the PCMH. In addition to these landmark improvements to the health care system, PPACA also focuses on Community Health Center expansion to meet the anticipated increase in demand for their services.
The law also provides incentives for states to modernize their Medicaid systems. These federal incentives could mean millions more for patient care here in Hawai‘i and Community Health Centers must play a central role in the delivery of health care to previously uninsured patients who will now have coverage. Our partnership with the legislature, state administration, and insurers is vital to making health care reform work for our underserved communities.
Capital Development and Infrastructure
With over 125,000 patients cared for last year, health centers are already operating at capacity. Some are bursting at the seams and in dire need of new, expanded facilities just to meet the current demand for their services. In order to prepare the Community Health Center system for future growth, we must find new sources of capital to help buy, build, or renovate their infrastructure.
In addition to facilities, funds are needed to develop the comprehensive set of services and health information technology platforms necessary to maintain the level of quality health care patients have come to expect from health centers.
