Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Hawai‘i Healthcare Crisis: Advocates Push for Higher Reimbursements

4/6/2026

49 11 Full Breakdown

Center

Tokuda Advocates Reforms

Hawai‘i's healthcare system is in crisis due to inadequate Medicare and Medicaid reimbursements.
Doctors in Hawai‘i receive lower payments than those in high-cost areas such as San Francisco.
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act will limit Medicaid reimbursements to Medicare rates, worsening access to care in Hawai‘i.
U.S. Rep. Jill Tokuda and Dr. Jack Lewin are advocating reforms to raise reimbursements by up to 38%.

Left

Veterans Demand Care

The shortage of family doctors leaves veterans without a regular clinician in Canada.
Veterans Affairs Canada offers virtual health services for one year after release.
Retired Colonel Niskika Jardine identifies the doctor shortage as a primary concern among veterans.
Advocates say veterans should be prioritized on provincial waitlists to speed access to care.
Rick Rickard, a veteran, argues that all patients should be treated equally.

1 of 2

Tokuda Advocates Reforms

Hawai‘i's healthcare system is in crisis due to inadequate Medicare and Medicaid reimbursements.
Doctors in Hawai‘i receive lower payments than those in high-cost areas such as San Francisco.
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act will limit Medicaid reimbursements to Medicare rates, worsening access to care in Hawai‘i.
U.S. Rep. Jill Tokuda and Dr. Jack Lewin are advocating reforms to raise reimbursements by up to 38%.

1 / 2