OLYMPIA, WA – Hawaii has joined Washington, California, and Oregon in the newly formed West Coast Health Alliance, a partnership announced this week to provide coordinated, science-based recommendations on immunizations.

The alliance was launched just a day before Hawaii joined. According to statements from the participating governors, the coalition aims to ensure public health decisions are guided by evidence, safety, and transparency rather than political influence. Hawaii Governor Josh Green, M.D., noted that as an island state, Hawaii has historically prioritized strong vaccination programs and intends to maintain that approach through the alliance.

The four states plan to align their immunization guidance with recommendations from national medical organizations. Each state will continue to manage public health strategies independently but will share common principles to strengthen public trust in vaccines. The alliance also affirmed respect for Tribal sovereignty, acknowledging that Tribes retain authority over vaccine services.

The announcement comes amid concerns over changes at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), including the removal of advisory committee members earlier this year. Alliance leaders said the partnership is intended to fill gaps left by shifting federal policies by offering consistent information to health care providers and residents.

In the coming weeks, the alliance is expected to finalize shared principles and expand coordination across the participating states.