Immigrant Health
What is the Hawaii Immigrant Health Initiative program?
The Immigrant Health Initiative (IHI), provides for low-cost or free health care to recently arrived immigrants who meet certain qualifications. Participation in this program does not make the beneficiary a "public charge" for the purpose of immigration law.
Who administers IHI Program funds?
The Hawai‘i Primary Care Association administers IHI funds under contract with the State of Hawaii Department of Human Services.
Who qualifies?
All legal permanent residents (green card holders), ages 19 and older who entered the United States on or after August 22, 1996 and who are not eligible for federally-funded medical assistance for the first five years of residency in the United States. All legal permanent resident aliens must provide proof of Hawaii residency in order to be eligible for this program.
What Medical Services are provided?
Participating community health centers will provide IHI patients with:
- Primary care for eligible adults, including physical exams, diagnoses, and treatment for chronic, episodic and acute conditions.
- Preventive care and education.
- Specialty care.
- Prescription drugs and supplies.
- Follow-up care.
- Tuberculin testing and immunizations.
- Gynecological services, family planning, yearly pap smears, contraceptive management and related follow-up.
- Specialty care services:
- Outpatient diagnostic and radiology services.
- Outpatient specialty services.
- Outpatient therapeutic procedures.
- Prescription and non-prescription drugs and supplies.
- Referral services are paid at applicable Medicare rates and may include specialty, diagnostics and procedures as outlined above.
Services Not Included
Inpatient care.
Emergency care (except for emergency dental services).
Visits and treatment for pregnant immigrants (these services are now covered by Medicaid)
Any benefit not provided by Medicaid or QUEST.
