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Bill

HB 1744

RELATING TO NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Diamond Garcia and 6 co-sponsors

HB 1744 establishes or modifies Hawaii's regulatory framework for naturopathic medicine practitioners, affecting licensure, scope of practice, and patient access to alternative healthcare services.

Referred to HSH/HLT, FIN, referral sheet 1
#dhs #med-quest #medicaidstateplan #naturopathicmedicine
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Bill Summary · HB 1744

Legislative bill overview

HB 1744 relates to naturopathic medicine regulation in Hawaii, though the specific provisions are not detailed in the available information. The bill was introduced on January 22, 2026, and has been referred to the Health and Human Services/Health committee, as well as the Finance committee, suggesting it involves licensing, practice standards, or funding related to naturopathic practitioners.

Why is this important

Naturopathic medicine regulation affects patient safety, scope of practice boundaries, and access to alternative healthcare services in Hawaii. The bill's placement in both health and finance committees indicates it may impact healthcare licensing frameworks and potentially state budgeting related to naturopathic oversight.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of practice definition: Clarity on what treatments naturopathic doctors can legally provide versus requiring referrals to licensed MDs, and whether they can diagnose conditions
  • Patient protection and oversight: Whether the bill establishes sufficient regulatory standards, continuing education requirements, and complaint mechanisms to protect consumers from unqualified practitioners
  • Insurance and reimbursement implications: Whether passage affects insurance coverage for naturopathic services and the financial impact on the state healthcare system

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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