Bill > HB598

This bill prohibits health insurance providers, including accident and health insurance policies, hospital and medical service plans, and health maintenance organizations, from imposing cost-sharing requirements (such as deductibles, coinsurance, copayments, or out-of-pocket expenses) for breast cancer screening, supplemental breast examinations, and diagnostic breast examinations. The bill provides detailed definitions for these types of examinations, clarifying that diagnostic breast examinations include mammography, breast MRI, and breast ultrasound used to evaluate abnormalities, while supplemental breast examinations are additional screenings based on personal or family medical history that might increase breast cancer risk. The only exception to the cost-sharing prohibition is for high-deductible health plans, where cost-sharing may be necessary to maintain the plan's tax-advantaged status under the Internal Revenue Code. The bill will take effect on January 1, 2026, and will apply to all health insurance plans, policies, contracts, and agreements issued or renewed on or after that date, with the goal of making breast cancer screening and diagnostic procedures more accessible by removing financial barriers to these important medical examinations.

Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=598&year=2026