What's Being Discussed

Welcome and council overview by Council Chair Ritabelle Fernandes, including a brief statement on the Kupuna Advisory Council's mission.
Staff update: Jason Espero has been selected as the new Comprehensive Health Planning Coordinator, taking over responsibilities from Wendy Nihoa and Terry Visperas. Terry will shift focus to building regional health planning councils.
Agency updates from the State Health Planning and Development Agency (SHPDA), including:

The Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) and its ongoing rollout
The AHEAD Grant (Achieving Healthcare Efficiency through Accountable Design)
Upcoming legislative priorities for the next session

Recruitment discussion: How to increase participation from neighbors islands (Maui, Hawaiʻi Island, Kauaʻi, Molokaʻi, Lānaʻi).
Planning for the next meeting on November 13th, including suggested presentation topics.

Decisions Expected

Approval of the August 14, 2026 meeting minutes.
Discussion and possible recommendations on improving neighbor island council membership and participation.
Selection of topics for the November meeting agenda.

Who Should Pay Attention

Kūpuna (older adults) and their families across Hawaiʻi, especially those on neighbor islands
Healthcare providers and advocates working with elderly populations
Community members interested in rural health access and statewide health planning
Anyone wishing to provide public testimony — three minutes are allowed per testifier on each agenda item; written testimony can be submitted by email to shpda@doh.hawaii.gov at least 48 hours before the meeting