Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SR6

Introduced
1/25/23  

Caption

Requesting The Auditor To Assess The Social And Financial Effects Of Mandating Health Insurance Coverage For Certain Breast Cancer Screenings And Additional Supplemental Imaging.

Impact

If enacted, SR6 would initiate a formal review process as stipulated by Hawaii Revised Statutes, specifically sections 23-51 and 23-52, which require an auditor's evaluation before any legislative measures mandating health coverage can be considered. This process is critical, as it ensures that the implications of mandating coverage for screenings and imaging are thoroughly understood. The auditor’s report will likely include essential findings that could inform future legislative actions regarding mandated health insurance provisions, thus holding the potential to influence state health policies significantly.

Summary

Senate Resolution 6 (SR6) seeks to request the auditor's assessment of the social and financial effects of mandating health insurance coverage for specific breast cancer screenings and supplemental imaging. Recognizing that breast cancer is the second leading cause of death in women in the United States, SR6 aims to address gaps in current health insurance coverage related to breast cancer screening, particularly for women under the age of forty who may not receive coverage unless specifically advised by a physician. The resolution emphasizes the importance of early detection through screenings, which can significantly improve survival rates and reduce treatment costs for late-stage diagnoses.

Contention

While proponents may argue for mandating health insurance coverage to enhance women's access to necessary screenings, detractors might express concerns regarding the overall financial burden on health insurers and the healthcare system. Such contentions often revolve around the fears that expanded coverage mandates could lead to increased insurance premiums or limited provider availability. Furthermore, there is the aspect of whether lawmakers should intervene in the specific health services covered by insurance policies, highlighting the ongoing debate between healthcare accessibility and economic viability.

Companion Bills

HI SCR8

Same As Requesting The Auditor To Assess The Social And Financial Effects Of Mandating Health Insurance Coverage For Certain Breast Cancer Screenings And Additional Supplemental Imaging.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.