Hawaii Offers Lessons for Health Reform

Oct 23rd, 2009

The New York Times reports that Hawaii’s health system offers important lessons for federal reform efforts.

Since 1974 Hawaii has required health coverage for all employees working 20 hours a week or more. As a result, the state has a low number of citizens who are uninsured and Hawaiians live longer than residents of other states.

Expanding coverage has also lowered costs. With among the highest cost of living in the United States, health insurance premiums are nearly tied with North Dakota for the lowest in the country, and Medicare costs per beneficiary are the nation’s lowest.”

A key lesson—even incremental changes can have lasting effects on health.

Read the full story here.

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