Hawaiʻi Healthcare Task Force

Physician Workforce Collapse in Hawaiʻi: Structural Causes and Policy Remedies

Hawaiʻi has 12,688 licensed physicians but only 3,647 in patient care, an 833 FTE shortfall when geography counts. Five structural reforms the Legislature can act on.

Hawaiʻi has 12,688 licensed physicians but only 3,647 in patient care, an 833 FTE shortfall when geography counts. Five structural reforms the Legislature can act on.

Key findings

  • Hawaiʻi has 12,688 licensed physicians but only 3,647 in patient care (3,044 FTE).
  • Statewide shortfall: 644 FTE standard model, 833 FTE with geography and specialty.
  • Maui needs 179 more physicians; Hawaiʻi Island needs 224.
  • 25% of practicing physicians are 65 or older.
  • General Excise Tax, Medicare GPCI undervaluation, and housing cost drive departures.

Suggested citation: Hawaiʻi Healthcare Task Force. (2026). Physician Workforce Collapse in Hawaiʻi: Structural Causes and Policy Remedies. https://hawaiihealthcaretaskforce.org/reports/physician-workforce-collapse

Authors: David Isei