Bill > SCR43

This resolution strongly supports and recommends the implementation of the Revised 2025 Hawaii Patient Bill of Rights, a comprehensive update to patient healthcare protections that addresses modern challenges in the state's healthcare system. The resolution addresses critical issues such as physician and healthcare professional shortages, AI-driven insurance claim denials, data protection, and network inadequacies, particularly in rural and neighbor island areas. Key provisions include mandating clear patient information, establishing transparent prior authorization processes with specific turnaround times for urgent and non-urgent requests, requiring AI-based coverage decisions to be reviewed by board-certified specialists, ensuring robust data protection with HIPAA-equivalent safeguards for offshore data processing, and providing stronger enforcement mechanisms through the Insurance Commissioner's office. The bill also emphasizes patient autonomy by guaranteeing rights such as understanding care options, accepting or declining treatments, accessing specialist referrals, and receiving emergency care without retrospective coverage denials. Additionally, the resolution includes provisions for telehealth accessibility, network adequacy reporting, anti-retaliation protections for healthcare providers, and a phased implementation approach with immediate effect for certain patient communication and emergency care provisions. The document encourages voluntary compliance from insurers and healthcare providers and acknowledges the need for ongoing stakeholder input to address evolving healthcare challenges.

Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SCR&billnumber=43&year=2025