Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SCR15

Introduced
1/25/23  
Refer
1/30/23  
Report Pass
4/4/23  
Engrossed
4/5/23  
Refer
4/11/23  
Report Pass
4/17/23  

Caption

Requesting The Auditor To Assess Both The Social And Financial Effects Of Proposed Mandated Health Insurance Coverage For A Percentage Of The Costs Of Ketamine Therapy To Treat Depression.

Impact

The proposed measure aims to shed light on both the potential social impact—such as improved health outcomes for those suffering from severe depression—and the financial ramifications for the state’s health insurance system. By requesting this assessment, SCR15 seeks to ensure that any future legislation requiring insurance coverage for ketamine therapy is grounded in data, ultimately informing better health policies and ensuring that residents receive effective treatment options.

Summary

SCR15 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution from the State of Hawaii that requests an assessment by the Auditor regarding the social and financial implications of mandated health insurance coverage for ketamine therapy, which is proposed to treat depression. The resolution acknowledges the necessity for a comprehensive evaluation before any legislative measures can mandate such health services, as dictated by Hawaii Revised Statutes. Specifically, it cites the growing recognition of ketamine as an effective treatment for treatment-resistant depression, which affects numerous residents in Hawaii.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SCR15 appears to be supportive, particularly among mental health advocates who see the need for innovative treatment options for depression. The push for an assessment reflects a responsible approach to addressing mental health needs in the state, although it draws attention to the complexities of health insurance mandates. There is general acknowledgment of the urgency in finding effective treatments for mental health conditions, with ketamine therapy being considered a promising option.

Contention

While the resolution itself does not appear to face significant opposition, the discussion surrounding insurance coverage for specific therapies often raises concerns about cost and equitable access. Some stakeholders may voice arguments regarding the financial burden on the state’s health system if mandated coverage is enacted. Overall, SCR15 highlights the tension between the need for innovative treatment options in mental health and the fiscal prudence required in health policy.

Companion Bills

HI SR13

Same As Requesting The Auditor To Assess Both The Social And Financial Effects Of Proposed Mandated Health Insurance Coverage For A Percentage Of The Costs Of Ketamine Therapy To Treat Depression.

Previously Filed As

HI SCR90

Requesting The Auditor To Assess Both The Social And Financial Effects Of Proposed Mandated Health Insurance Coverage For A Percentage Of The Costs Of Ketamine Therapy To Treat Depression And Suicide Ideation.

HI SR76

Requesting The Auditor To Assess Both The Social And Financial Effects Of Proposed Mandated Health Insurance Coverage For A Percentage Of The Costs Of Ketamine Therapy To Treat Depression And Suicide Ideation.

HI SCR26

Requesting The Auditor To Conduct A Social And Financial Assessment Of Proposed Mandatory Health Insurance Coverage For Step Therapy Requirements For Stage Two Through Stage Five Cancer.

HI HCR225

Requesting The Auditor To Conduct A Social And Financial Assessment Of Proposed Mandatory Health Insurance Coverage For Step Therapy Requirements For Stage Two Through Stage Five Cancer.

HI SCR159

Requesting The Auditor To Assess The Social And Financial Effects Of Mandatory Health Insurance Coverage For Biomarker Testing.

HI HCR53

Requesting The Auditor To Assess The Social And Financial Effects Of Mandatory Health Insurance Coverage For Biomarker Testing.

HI SCR207

Requesting The Auditor To Conduct A Social And Financial Assessment On Mandating Dental And Vision Insurance Coverage.

HI SR183

Requesting The Auditor To Conduct A Social And Financial Assessment On Mandating Dental And Vision Insurance Coverage.

HI SCR124

Requesting The Hawaii Hurricane Relief Fund And The Insurance Commissioner To Assess The Impacts Of Climate Change On Homeowner's Insurance.

HI SCR192

Requesting The Office Of The Auditor To Conduct A Performance Audit Of The Plant Pest Control Branch And Plant Quarantine Branch Within The Plant Industry Division Of The Department Of Agriculture.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.