US-NEWS-HEALTH-MEDICAID-WORKRULES-HAWAIIANS-FILEPIC-2-KHN

Kapono Chong-Hanssen warns that new Medicaid work requirements will damage the trust established between healthcare providers and Native Hawaiian patients. The Waianae Coast Comprehensive Health Center, serving Oahu's largest Native Hawaiian population, faces significant challenges. CEO Rich Bettini states that Hawaii's high cost of living and depressed wages have increased homelessness, creating further barriers for Native Hawaiians attempting to comply with these new Medicaid mandates, potentially limiting their access to essential healthcare services.