As a private-practice pediatrician of 35 years, I have seen many changes to HMSA’s payment models, and it has not been easy adapting to their ever-changing rules and requirements for payment.

I feel the answer starts with going from disease-management care to one focused on the family’s physical, emotional, social and spiritual well-being.

Over the years, I have started two programs in my office. The first are “Family Obesity Workshops” to equip and encourage families dealing with obesity as well as my free weekly “Walk with a Doc” program. Both programs have shown amazing results and transformed lives.

My hope is that our health insurers will see the value of proactive programs and really work hard to support independent Hawaii physicians, so that we can continue our efforts to prevent chronic diseases.

Theresa Wee

Waipahu

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