Requesting The Auditor To Conduct A Social And Financial Assessment Of Proposed Mandatory Health Insurance Coverage For Traditional Native Hawaiian Healing And Cultural Practices Offered Through Federally Qualified Health Centers Or Native Hawaiian Health Care Systems.
If passed, HCR13 would enable a comprehensive examination of the implications of expanding health insurance to cover traditional practices. This could significantly influence the accessibility of these culturally relevant health services for Indigenous populations, potentially improving health outcomes by integrating traditional and modern healthcare approaches. However, the assessment might reveal various considerations regarding the financial impact on the insurance system and the economic feasibility of implementing such mandates.
HCR13 is a House Concurrent Resolution introduced in the Thirty-third Legislature of Hawaii in 2025. This resolution requests the Auditor to conduct a social and financial assessment regarding the proposed mandatory health insurance coverage for traditional Native Hawaiian healing and cultural practices. The resolution is in response to a legislative effort, House Bill No. 641, which aims to expand current health insurance mandates to include these traditional practices offered through federally qualified health centers and Native Hawaiian health care systems. Traditional practices like lomilomi massage, ʻai pono, laʻau lapaʻau, and hoʻoponopono are included under this proposed coverage, which reflects an approach supporting holistic health care incorporating cultural and spiritual elements alongside conventional medical services.
Some points of contention surrounding HCR13 may originate from differing perspectives on the appropriateness of integrating traditional healing into mainstream health insurance models. Supporters argue that this would empower Native Hawaiian communities and preserve cultural practices, thereby promoting equity in health care access. Conversely, opponents may raise concerns about the potential costs and implications for insurance providers, along with questions regarding the quality, efficacy, and regulation of traditional healing practices. The resolution requires the Auditor to submit findings and recommendations to the Legislature, highlighting the need for a thorough and informed discussion on this sensitive yet critical topic.