Hawai’i Expands New Model of Health Care

By Wendy Osher

Gov. Neil Abercrombie. File photo by Wendy Osher.

Governor Abercrombie joined the state’s Human Services Director, Patricia McManaman today in announcing plans to expand access to a new model of health care delivery.

The new model, referred to as “patient-centered healthcare homes” or “medical homes,” focuses on patient care and technology.   It is designed to enhance access to physicians and improve coordination of services through technology and electronic health records.

“This is the future of health care delivery,” said Gov. Abercrombie.  “Our initial investment in and long term commitment to implement medical homes will improve the quality of care for our people and save the state significant money in the long run,” he said.

State officials say the program is expected to be of particular benefit to patients suffering from chronic conditions.  The state qualifies for $9 in federal funding for every $1 spent on implementation over the first two years under the program.

“We need to make sure, as we seek efficiencies in our Medicaid programs, that we have a vision of a long-term solution that seeks better value from our Medicaid expenditures,” said Richard Bettini, an advocate of the new health care home model and CEO of the Waianae Coast Comprehensive Health Center.

*** Supporting information courtesy Office of the Governor, State of Hawai’i.