The Chief of the Hawaii State Department of Health (DOH) was recently recognized by the federal government for achievements in excellence.
According to a Department of Health News Release, Chief of the Hawaii State Department of Health Dr. Patricia Heu received the Title V Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of her contributions providing a positive impact for children with special needs across the country.
“My journey started as a young pediatrician in a rural Title V clinic, and I’ve been with Title V ever since,” Heu said, according to the news release. “We continue working toward the optimal health, development and well-being of children and youth with special health care needs and their families through family-professional partnership, medical home, health insurance, screening, community-based services and transition to adult life.”
As the Chief of DOH’s Children with Special Health Needs Branch (CSHNB), Heu has been responsible for the development and implementation of programs and services while also inspiring her colleagues to help parents and children with special health care needs. Heu was also responsible for establishing the Children and Youth with Special Health Needs Program, which provides access to necessary care.
“Dr. Heu was instrumental in transitioning the CSHNB from direct services towards a public health approach, while maintaining a safety net for children to ensure access to specialty care,” Matthew Shim, Title V Director for the State of Hawaii said, according to the news release. “This award recognizes her unwavering dedication to our families and especially children with special health care needs throughout the state.”