Requesting The Auditor To Assess The Social And Financial Effects Of Proposed Mandatory Health Insurance Coverage For Continuous Glucose Monitors.
The resolution is pivotal as it aims to comply with Hawaii Revised Statutes sections 23-51 and 23-52, which outline the necessary steps before introducing any legislative measures on mandated health insurance coverage. Specifically, it identifies House Bill No. 820, which seeks to expand current mandates to include CGMs, thereby establishing a structured approach to evaluating the social and financial facets of this proposed policy change. The auditor is tasked to present findings and recommendations to the legislature by a specified date ahead of the next regular session.
House Resolution 167 (HR167) proposes a request for the auditor to assess the social and financial effects of mandating health insurance coverage for continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) in Hawaii. This resolution recognizes that more than 108,600 adults in Hawaii live with diabetes, necessitating strict management of their blood glucose levels to avoid severe complications. Given the better insight and real-time data that CGMs provide compared to traditional blood glucose meters, the measure outlines the critical need for assessing the implications of expanding healthcare coverage to include these devices.
Notably, while supporters may view the coverage mandate for CGMs as essential for improving health management for those with diabetes, there may be concerns regarding the potential financial implications for insurance providers and the state budget. The outcomes of the auditor's report could influence the future trajectory of healthcare policy in Hawaii, particularly as it pertains to insurance coverage for innovative medical technology. As such, stakeholder discussions surrounding HR167 may evolve, focusing on balancing healthcare advancement with economic sustainability.