HI HCR38

Requests the State Auditor to conduct a study assessing the impact of medical bill review costs on Hawaii's workers' compensation system, including pharmacy benefit manager and third-party administrator costs.

Directs the Auditor to complete the study by November 30, 2018, and submit findings to the Legislature no later than 20 days before the 2019 regular session convenes.

Notes that medical bill review fees may represent up to 50 percent of total per-claim handling fees and are often charged separately from fixed claim administration fees, making them difficult to compare across providers.

Emphasizes that high medical bill review costs reduce funds available for injured workers and that claims administrators should transparently disclose all fees charged to claim files.

Sends certified copies of the resolution to the Auditor, Director of Labor and Industrial Relations, and Director of Human Resources Development.