Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

Hawaii House Bill HB1722

Introduced
1/19/24  
Refer
1/24/24  
Introduced
1/19/24  

Caption

Relating To Health.

Impact

If passed, this bill would ensure that women and at-risk individuals can access necessary screenings and diagnostic tests without financial barriers. By removing cost-sharing for these essential services, the legislation aims to promote public health goals regarding early breast cancer detection. It is projected that increased access to screenings could lead to improved health outcomes and potentially save lives, as early detection is crucial for effective treatment.

Summary

House Bill 1722 seeks to amend Chapter 431 and Chapter 432 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes by prohibiting cost-sharing requirements for breast cancer screening, supplemental examinations, and diagnostic examinations. This means that individuals covered by health insurance plans in Hawaii will not have to pay deductibles, coinsurance, or copayments for these specific medical services. The bill emphasizes the importance of accessible breast cancer evaluations to enhance early detection and treatment opportunities.

Contention

Supporters of HB 1722 may argue that this legislation represents a significant step toward eliminating health disparities, particularly in underserved communities where access to preventative health care might be limited due to costs. However, there might be concerns raised by insurers and others regarding the financial implications of absorbing the costs without cost-sharing provisions, which could lead to increased premiums or modified coverage for other services. Stakeholders are likely to debate the balance between providing essential health services and sustaining viable health insurance markets.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

HI HB598

Relating To Health.

HI S4309

Requires health insurance coverage of diagnostic and supplemental breast examinations without cost-sharing.

HI A5542

Requires health insurance coverage of diagnostic and supplemental breast examinations without cost-sharing.

HI SB430

Relating to cost-sharing requirements for breast examinations

HI SB2858

Health benefit plans; set provisions related to diagnostic breast exams and individualized investigational drugs.

HI AB2024

Health care coverage: diagnostic imaging.

HI SB974

Health care coverage: diagnostic imaging.

HI SB257

Health care coverage: diagnostic imaging.

HI HB60

An Act To Amend Titles 18, 29, And 31 Relating To Breast Cancer Screening And Diagnostic Procedures.

HI SB965

Cancer Screening - Health Insurance and Assessment of Outreach, Education, and Health Disparities

Similar Bills

HI HB598

Relating To Health.

NM HB27

Breast Exam Health Coverage

CA AB2024

Health care coverage: diagnostic imaging.

NJ S4309

Requires health insurance coverage of diagnostic and supplemental breast examinations without cost-sharing.

NJ A5542

Requires health insurance coverage of diagnostic and supplemental breast examinations without cost-sharing.

IN HB1061

Coverage for cancer screening.

OH HB271

Enact Breast Examination and Screening Transformation (BEST) Act

OH HB619

Revise insurance, Medicaid coverage of breast cancer screenings