The Hawaii Medical Association will kick off its 2008 Patient Access to Care Forum Series at 5:30 p.m. Feb. 5 at the Kihei Community Center.

Organizers said the free public event will provide an open discussion forum on the state's shortage of physicians and information on topics to be taken up during the legislative session. Proposed limitations to medical liability lawsuits failed during the 2007 session and is expected to be revived this year, the association said.

For more information call 536-7702 on O'ahu, or toll-free 888-536-2792; or go to www.hmaonline.net.