Bill > SB46

This bill requires all health insurers in Hawaii, including Medicaid managed care programs, to provide coverage for an annual mental health wellness examination starting January 1, 2026. The examination, which must be up to 60 minutes long and performed by a qualified mental health care provider, will be free of deductibles or copayments. The mental health wellness examination may include various components such as behavioral health screenings, observations, education about healthy lifestyle changes, referrals for treatment, discussions about medication options, and age-appropriate mental health assessments. The bill defines "qualified mental health care providers" broadly, including physicians, psychologists, clinical social workers, mental health counselors, and advanced practice registered nurses with psychiatric specialization. The coverage must be at least as comprehensive as physical examinations and comply with the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008. Insurers will be required to reimburse providers for all costs associated with these examinations. The law will take effect on July 1, 2025, with policy implementations beginning on December 31, 2025, and will apply to all health insurance policies, contracts, and plans in the state.

Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=46&year=2025