HI HCR100

Requests the State Auditor to assess the social and financial effects of mandating health insurance coverage for medically necessary treatment of orofacial anomalies (such as cleft lip or cleft palate) as proposed in House Bill No. 2522.

Requires the Auditor to submit findings and recommendations to the Legislature no later than 20 days before the 2015 Regular Session convenes.

Notes that approximately 1 in 500 children in Hawaii are born with orofacial anomalies, with higher prevalence among Asian, Pacific Islander, and Filipino populations.

Identifies that 17 other states have already mandated health insurance coverage for orthodontic care related to orofacial anomalies, with average lifetime orthodontic care costs of $10,250.

Mandates that coverage apply to all health insurance policies issued on or after December 31, 2014, including hospital, medical service, and health maintenance organization plans.