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.
The resolution aims to address the limitations imposed by step therapy protocols, which require patients to first try less expensive treatments before gaining access to potentially more effective medications prescribed by their healthcare providers. By alleviating these requirements for critical cancer stages, the measure intends to enhance the likelihood of proactive treatment, which is crucial for improving patient outcomes and potentially saving lives.
HCR225, a concurrent resolution introduced in the Thirty-second Legislature of Hawaii, requests the Auditor to conduct a social and financial assessment of proposed mandatory health insurance coverage for step therapy requirements specifically for patients diagnosed with stage two through stage five cancer. This request arises in light of the substantial cancer burden in Hawaii, where cancer stands as the second leading cause of death, leading to significant health and social concerns within the community.
Discussions surrounding HCR225 may involve some contention regarding healthcare costs and insurance company protocols. Opponents might argue that mandating access to specific treatments without first attempting less costly options could lead to increased insurance premiums and overall healthcare costs. Conversely, proponents contend that enabling immediate access to effective cancer treatments would ultimately be more beneficial in terms of health outcomes and cost savings in the long run, as timely treatment can prevent more severe complications and advanced disease progression.