There is a worrisome shortage of physicians, especially those in high-risk specialties, in rural areas of Hawai'i. This is not in serious dispute.

What to do about this problem remains another matter.

A top priority for doctors this legislative session — sensible tort reform to put firm caps on non-economic malpractice awards — was shelved before making it to full floor votes.

What's left is a weaker substitute that is nonetheless better than nothing: HCR 349, a resolution calling for a study of medical tort reform and how it could affect access to healthcare in Hawai'i.

The study, to be prepared by the Legislative Reference Bureau with input from all side of this bitterly divisive issue, should have the goal of clearing the air on the subject.

Meanwhile, real legislative progress toward a solution — making it less risky and financially more attractive for doctors to practice where they're needed most — remains unfinished business.

But all is not lost.

HB 2519 would create a task force to establish a Hawaii Health Corps that would provide loan repayments, stipends, business tax breaks and other incentives to doctors who commit to working in underserved areas and are willing to be first responders in civil defense emergencies.

Such efforts, and more, are needed to help bring reliable, high-quality healthcare to those who need it most.