Bill > SB482

This bill requires health care providers who accept Medicare to conduct cognitive assessments during annual wellness visits for Medicare Part B beneficiaries aged 65 and older, with specific exceptions. The cognitive assessment must use standardized, FDA-approved tools covered by Medicare, and patients can voluntarily decline the assessment after being informed about its purpose and potential benefits. Health care providers must submit detailed reports to the Executive Office on Aging, including information such as patient demographics, assessment type, results, and follow-up actions. The Executive Office on Aging is then required to compile and publish an annual report with aggregated, de-identified data to the Legislature, ensuring patient confidentiality. The bill is designed to improve early detection of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias, potentially reducing long-term healthcare costs and helping families better prepare for potential cognitive decline. Exemptions include healthcare providers who do not accept Medicare, patients already diagnosed with dementia or mild cognitive impairment, and patients unable to undergo assessment due to physical or mental impairments. The bill will take effect on January 1, 2026, with funding appropriated for data management and reporting requirements.

Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=482&year=2025