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Bill

Bill

HB 1130

RELATING TO PRIOR AUTHORIZATION OF HEALTH CARE SERVICES.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Nadine Nakamura

HB 1130 modifies Hawaii's prior authorization requirements for health care services to address approval delays and administrative burden, potentially expanding patient access to faster treatment decisions.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
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Bill Summary · HB 1130

Legislative bill overview

HB 1130 addresses prior authorization requirements for health care services in Hawaii. The bill has been introduced and referred to the Health (HLT) and Consumer Protection & Commerce (CPC) committees but specific provisions are not detailed in the available action history. The measure was carried over to the 2026 Regular Session after initial processing in 2025.

Why is this important

Prior authorization—the requirement that insurers pre-approve certain medical treatments before they're provided—significantly affects patient care timelines and physician workflow. Changes to these requirements can impact healthcare access, treatment delays, administrative burden on providers, and insurance company operations. Hawaii's healthcare system serves a geographically isolated population where approval delays carry particular consequences.

Potential points of contention

  • Insurance company vs. patient interests: Streamlining prior authorization may reduce insurer oversight and claims management authority while improving patient access, creating inherent tension between cost control and care delivery
  • Provider burden: Changes could either reduce administrative work for healthcare providers or shift compliance responsibilities, depending on implementation details
  • Scope and coverage: Disputes may arise over which services should be exempt from prior authorization and whether exemptions are too broad or too narrow

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

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