Defining Moment in Hawaiian Health

​The state has recently unveiled the most ambitious, and unprecedented health care initiative in recent memory. By targeting unhealthy activities, and promoting nutrition, healthy lifestyle choices and more the government aims to bring about a reduction in Hawaiian obesity rates, and premature, and preventable death on the islands. Though Hawaii ranks as one of the lowest states in terms of obesity rating, it is highly emphasized that simply because that’s the case, is no reason not to continue working at it. Throughout most of the positive changes that have been made in Hawaii over recent years, we are slowly becoming leaders in positive initiatives, and continuing this trend in a way that promotes a healthier and longer life, will only bring benefit to the entire state.
            With the launch of the Healthy Hawaii website, visitors to the online location will find themselves met with average state health indexes, quit smoking aids, tips for healthier eating and fun activities that will assist in promoting a healthier lifestyle. As much as we may complain about the government getting involved in our daily lives, seeing them put this much effort and funding into an initiative that directly impacts our lives for the better, and brings resources to those who may otherwise not have it is a welcome intrusion. We all know the importance of healthy living, and going through our day to day lives in a way that only serves to benefit our lives, but having the support group around to help you through those tough times is when it can get harder, and this is one of the areas targeted by this healthy approach.
            For instance in the quit smoking section of the website, you will find the means to get in contact with a coach who can assist you with formulating your plan, providing keys for success, and to provide you with support if and when you hit a time of struggle. To see the government as the driving force behind this is almost unheard of. Generally you see these types of initiative put on by private members of the public, in some form of group trying to raise awareness, but a state funded and executed implementation, in our eyes, is a welcome change to the norm. Knowing that our government is actively showing that they care about the health of Hawaiians rather than just saying it makes a big impression.
            With all of these tools now at our disposal, we don’t seem to find much of an excuse not to get out there and to make a positive change, to attempt to be the country leaders, and to improve on our already great way of life here on the islands. If you’ve been meaning to make any changes to your lifestyle, to take your future in your hands and remove some of the negative influences you have, then perhaps taking the time to read over all the information on the new government sponsored site is a great start.