WASHINGTON_ Healthcare and wellness programs designed to address the needs of Native Hawaiians will receive more than $14 million this fiscal year, Senator Daniel K. Inouye and Senator Daniel K. Akaka announced today.

Native Hawaiian Healthcare programs will receive $14,421,000 from the U.S. Department of Health.

Providing quality healthcare services to Native Hawaiians has always been critical.  Cancer, diabetes, and heart disease continue to plague the Native Hawaiians at a greater rate than all other ethnic groups.  Early health prevention and promotion greatly improve the chances of providing proper treatment to increase their longevity.  

These funds will be used to provide preventative care, traditional healing practices, and general health services.

“These funds are critical to addressing the unique healthcare needs of the Native Hawaiian people.  Unfortunately, Native Hawaiians, compared to all other ethnic groups, are disproportionately susceptible to heart disease, diabetes, and certain forms of cancer.  We must continue to do all we can to provide affordable healthcare and access to medical professionals for the indigenous people Hawaii,” said Senator Inouye.

“This continued investment will provide Papa Ola Lokahi and the Native Hawaiian Health Care Systems stability to support and improve health and wellbeing in a culturally-appropriate way,” said Senator Akaka, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs.  “Many Native Hawaiians and their families depend on these vital programs which help attract and retain local health professionals sensitive to their communities’ unique challenges.”