HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0922.003 2014-2016 hmsaas COUNTY CLERK
0�0 COUNTY OF HAWAII
RECEIVED Date Time '20Th J2a-
July 18, 2016
The Honorable Maile"Medeiros"David,Chair
The Honorable Karen Eoff, Vice-Chair
Committee on Human Services& Social Services
Hawaii County Council
Re: RES 552-16: A RESOLUTION SUPPORTING THE NECESSARY INITIATIVES FOR THE
COUNTY OF HAWAII TO ACHIEVE CERTIFICATION AS A BLUE ZONES COMMUNITY
Dear Chair David,Vice-Chair Eoff, and Committee Members:
The Hawaii Medical Service Association(HMSA)appreciates the opportunity to testify in support of
RES 552-16,which would support initiatives to certify Hawaii County as a Blue Zones Community.
HMSA is dedicated to caring for the people of Hawaii. Through innovative partnerships,we are able to
promote well-being. Which is why in 2014, HMSA furthered our vision for a healthier Hawaii through a
partnership with the Blue Zones Project—whose focus is to transform communities in order to make the
healthier choice easy for everyone.
In October of 2015,North Hawaii and East Hawaii were recognized in phase one of the Blue Zones
Project efforts in the State. Since then an estimated 2,000 individuals have participated in Blue Zones
Project initiatives. Several faith-based organizations, schools,restaurants and worksites are currently
participating in Blue Zones Project initiatives.
Other successes include Blue Zones Project approval of 8 restaurants, 1 grocery store,2 schools, and 1
worksite. Six of these eight recently approved organizations are on Hawaii Island.
We commend and appreciate the Council for taking steps to support the Blue Zones Project through
tobacco cessation,health food environment and built environment projects.Through these efforts we are
mutually helping to improve the health and well-being of our members and the community which
improves Hawaii's overall healthcare system.
Thank you for allowing HMSA to testify in support of RES 552-16;we look forward to continued support
and partnership with the county on this project.
Sincerely,
COMM: No. 6tt
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Ref. DateJUL 1 _8 2016
Elisa Yadao
Senior Vice President, Consumer Experience
Hawai'i Medical Service Association P.O.Box 860 (808)948-5110 Offices also located on hmsa.corn
818 Keeaumoku St. Honolulu,HI 96808-0860 Hawaii Island,Kauai and Maui