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SCR 173

REQUESTING HEALTH INSURERS AND MANAGED CARE PROVIDERS THAT PROVIDE HEALTH INSURANCE IN THE STATE TO PROVIDE INSURANCE COVERAGE FOR PROSTHETIC AND ORTHOTIC DEVICES.

2025 Regular Session

Hawaii requests health insurers voluntarily cover prosthetic and orthotic devices to improve patient access, but lacks enforcement mechanisms and cost specifications.

The committee on HHS deferred the measure.
#healthinsurancecoverage #orthoticdevices #prostheticdevices
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Bill Summary · SCR 173

Legislative bill overview

SCR 173 is a concurrent resolution requesting that health insurers and managed care providers operating in Hawaii expand their coverage to include prosthetic and orthotic devices. This is a non-binding request rather than mandatory legislation, meaning it urges insurers to voluntarily adopt this coverage without imposing legal requirements or penalties.

Why is this important

Prosthetic and orthotic devices (prosthetic limbs, braces, mobility aids, etc.) are essential for individuals with disabilities or injuries to maintain independence and quality of life. Currently, insurance coverage for these devices varies widely, leaving many patients to bear substantial out-of-pocket costs. Expanding coverage could significantly improve access for lower-income Hawaiians and reduce financial barriers to rehabilitation and mobility.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost concerns: Insurers may argue that mandating or strongly encouraging this coverage would increase premiums for all policyholders, potentially making insurance less affordable overall
  • Definition and scope ambiguity: The resolution doesn't specify which devices qualify, how frequently they can be replaced, or coverage limits, creating uncertainty about actual financial impact
  • Non-binding nature limits effectiveness: As a concurrent resolution, this has no enforcement mechanism; insurers can simply ignore the request, raising questions about whether this bill accomplishes meaningful change

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

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