HI HR61

Requests accident and health insurers, mutual benefit societies, and health maintenance organizations in Hawaii to provide coverage or reimbursement for palliative care services.

Defines palliative care as specialized health care for patients with serious and life-threatening illnesses that focuses on relieving suffering, managing pain and symptoms, and providing psychological and spiritual support.

Notes that palliative care is patient and family-centered, optimizes quality-of-life, and serves as a cost-effective alternative for growing populations of elderly citizens and those with chronic diseases.

Directs the Insurance Commissioner to transmit certified copies of the resolution to all accident and health insurers, mutual benefit societies, and health maintenance organizations operating in Hawaii.