Hawaii House Bill HCR53

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/5/24
• Refer: 3/8/24
• Report Pass: 3/28/24
• Report Pass: 4/4/24
• Refer: 3/28/24
• Refer: 4/5/24
• Engrossed: 4/4/24
• Report Pass: 4/23/24
• Passed: 4/25/24

Caption

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

Impact

The impact of HCR53, if enacted, would be significant for patient care, particularly in enhancing access to crucial health services. By mandating that health insurers cover biomarker testing, the resolution seeks to ensure that patients receive the benefits of precision medicine. This could lead to earlier and more effective treatment options for serious diseases based on genetic and other personalized factors, thus potentially improving health outcomes.

Summary

HCR53 is a concurrent resolution from the House of Representatives of Hawaii, introduced in the 2024 Legislative session. The resolution requests the state auditor to assess the social and financial impacts of mandatory health insurance coverage for biomarker testing. Biomarker testing is highlighted as a critical aspect in the personalized medicine approach, allowing for individuals' treatment plans to be tailored based on their unique biological markers. This resolution supports the passage of House Bill No. 2223, which aims to require various health insurance entities to cover medically necessary biomarker testing.

Contention

Notably, the resolution arises amid ongoing discussions within the healthcare community about the need for greater coverage options for advanced medical testing. While proponents argue that biomarker testing is essential for high-quality, patient-centered care, there may be concerns regarding the costs associated with expanding insurance coverage. The auditor's assessment is expected to address these potential financial implications, providing data that the legislature can use to make informed decisions moving forward.