How is Gov. David Ige going to address the local health care challenges based on his 2019 budget? Is he going to fund the Hawaii Health Authority (HRS Chapter 322H-1) this time?

Many are not aware that in 2009, then-Gov. Neil Abercrombie signed a law creating the HHA as an agency tasked to design a system to ensure a comprehensive, universal health care system for all Hawaii residents.

Despite designing proposals to strengthen primary care and improve health care access, the HHA has been tossed aside over the years, never receiving funding support from our lawmakers.

Our primary care is suffering, access to care is deteriorating, and health insurance premiums are increasing outrageously. I hope that the HHA will not be ignored in the 2019 legislative session. Gov. Ige and Hawaii lawmakers, for the sake of the people of Hawaii, please support the HHA and get it funded so it can do its job.

Arcelita Imasa

Aiea

Click here to read more Letters to the Editor.