Establishes a statewide comprehensive health care workforce map and database to compile and analyze data on the supply, demand, and distribution of all health care workers by specialty and practice location. Appropriates funds. (SD1)

A BILL FOR AN ACT

SECTION 1. The legislature finds that there is a growing shortage of healthcare professionals in Hawaii, especially on the neighbor islands and in rural areas. The State's rapidly aging population will significantly increase the demand for health care services and long-term care. As the general population ages, so does the health care workforce, exacerbating the growing shortage of providers. In addition, low reimbursement rates, issues related to living and working in remote communities, challenging working conditions, and the cost of medical malpractice insurance continue to create barriers to recruitment and retention of health care providers, especially in certain specialty areas.

Even if people have health insurance, they are often unable to access appropriate care. A fully staffed, well-trained health care workforce is a key component in providing quality healthcare to all Hawaii residents.

The purpose of this Act is to develop and maintain a statewide comprehensive health care workforce map and database to:

SECTION 2. There is appropriated out of the general revenues of the State of Hawaii the sum of $          , or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2006-2007, for the state health planning and development agency to develop and maintain a statewide comprehensive health care workforce map and database.

SECTION 3. The sum appropriated shall be expended by the department of health for the purposes of this Act.

SECTION 4. This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2006.