REQUESTING THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH TO REDUCE THE USE OF DISPOSABLE SURGICAL EQUIPMENT AND ADOPT SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES IN THE PROVISION OF HEALTH CARE SERVICES FOLLOWING EXAMPLES SET BY CALIFORNIA AND JAPAN.

HCR 194 is a non-binding resolution requesting Hawaii's Department of Health to reduce reliance on disposable surgical equipment and adopt sustainable practices, modeled after California and Japan. It directs the Department to develop guidelines for healthcare facilities, encourage partnerships with sterilization companies, and submit a report by 2026 detailing cost and environmental benefits of using reusable instruments. The resolution specifically targets hospitals and health care facilities in Hawaii, aiming to decrease medical waste and landfill impact. It does not impose new laws but urges the Department to explore cost-saving, eco-friendly alternatives to single-use surgical supplies.