What's Being Discussed

Meeting minutes: The council will review and approve notes from their September 11, 2026 meeting.
State health agency updates: Staff from the State Health Planning and Development Agency (SHPDA) will share updates on two major programs — the Achieving Healthcare Efficiency Through Accountable Design (AHEAD) program and the Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP). They will also discuss funding gaps, how money is being distributed across communities, upcoming legislative priorities, and staffing changes.
Rx Keiki presentation: A guest speaker, Kris Coffield, will present Rx Keiki, a proposed program that would give Hawaii families a $1,500 cash payment during pregnancy and $500 per month for six to twelve months after birth. The idea is modeled after a similar program in Michigan and aims to reduce financial stress, improve health outcomes for mothers and babies, and promote health equity. The proposal would use a mix of federal TANF funds and private donations.
Member updates: Council members may share announcements or suggest future presentation topics.

Decisions Expected

A vote to approve the September 11, 2026 meeting minutes.
Possible discussion and feedback on the Rx Keiki proposal, though no final vote on the program itself is listed.

Who Should Pay Attention

Pregnant women and new parents who may benefit from the proposed Rx Keiki cash assistance program.
Residents of Maui, Molokai, and Lanai (the Tri-Isle region) affected by rural health planning decisions.
Healthcare providers and community organizations working in underserved areas.
Anyone interested in maternal and child health policy in Hawaii.