The state’s healthcare system is facing a growing crisis that puts the state’s kupuna—our cherished elderly residents—at serious risk. Hospitals and care facilities across the islands are struggling to fill 4,600 vacant medical staff positions. According to the Healthcare Association of Hawai’i (HAH), the situation is so severe that it’s directly affecting the quality of care for seniors. Now, healthcare leaders are sounding the alarm about the growing gap between available caregivers and the needs of the state’s aging population.
The Impact on Nursing Home Care
Nursing homes and long-term care facilities are being hit the hardest. Hawaii currently lacks more than 600 certified nurse aides and over 300 nursing assistants. Home health aides are also experiencing a 30% vacancy rate.
These roles are critical in ensuring the well-being of elderly residents. As Wes Lo, CEO of Ohana Pacific Health, told the Honolulu Star-Advertiser:
“As people age, their healthcare needs grow more complex, with potentially more severe illnesses. We are seeing greater demand for nursing home beds and home health. Certainly, the aging population is starting to catch up with us.”
In other words, seniors need more specialized care, precisely when there aren’t enough trained professionals to provide it.