Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

Hawaii House Bill HCR182

Introduced
3/8/24  
Refer
3/14/24  
Introduced
3/8/24  
Report Pass
3/28/24  
Refer
3/14/24  
Report Pass
3/28/24  

Caption

Requesting The Legislative Reference Bureau To Conduct A Study Of Statutes And Regulations Related To Prior Authorization Requirements And The Timely Delivery Of Health Care Services In The State And Include An Analysis Of Prior Authorization Reform, With Input Of Data And Feedback From Stakeholders, Including Patient Advocates, Providers, Facilities, And Payers.

Impact

If enacted, the study mandated by HCR182 aims to provide a comprehensive analysis comparing Hawaii's prior authorization regulations with those of at least five other states. This could lead to proposed reforms that make prior authorization processes more efficient, potentially reducing waiting times for treatment and improving healthcare delivery in the state. Advocates believe that streamlining these processes can alleviate the existing bottleneck in accessing essential healthcare services, particularly for underserved populations.

Summary

HCR182 is a House Concurrent Resolution introduced in the Thirty-second Legislature of Hawaii, aimed at addressing the challenges patients face due to prior authorization requirements within healthcare systems. The resolution requests the Legislative Reference Bureau to conduct a thorough study on the statutes and regulations related to these requirements, highlighting issues such as administrative burdens, costs, and treatment delays caused by the current prior authorization process. The emphasis on timely delivery of healthcare services reflects a growing concern among various stakeholders about accessibility and efficiency in medical care.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HCR182 appears to be largely positive, particularly among patient advocates and healthcare providers who welcome initiatives to simplify prior authorization processes. However, concerns remain about the responses from private insurers and potential pushback on the implementation of any reforms that may require them to adjust existing practices. This dual sentiment reflects an ongoing debate in legislative discussions about balancing oversight with the need for efficient healthcare delivery.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the inconsistency in prior authorization turnaround times among private insurers, which can lead to confusion and added costs for healthcare providers. There are also concerns regarding how proposed changes could address the barriers faced by patients in rural and underserved areas. Critics may argue about the adequacy of reform measures and whether they truly alleviate the burdens highlighted, emphasizing the need for thorough stakeholder engagement throughout the study process.

Companion Bills

HI HR162

Same As Requesting The Legislative Reference Bureau To Conduct A Study Of Statutes And Regulations Related To Prior Authorization Requirements And The Timely Delivery Of Health Care Services In The State And Include An Analysis Of Prior Authorization Reform, With Input Of Data And Feedback From Stakeholders, Including Patient Advocates, Providers, Facilities, And Payers.

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