H.C.R. 39 Summary

• Establishes a working group to review and report on hearing aid costs and coverages by health insurance plans operating in Hawaii.

• Working group shall examine categories and coverage levels of hearing aids by plan, patient cost obligations (co-pays, deductibles, fees), medical necessity and accessibility of different hearing aid types, and recommended coverage parameters.

• Working group composition includes one House member and one Senate member as co-chairs, Insurance Commissioner, Med-QUEST Division Administrator, Attorney General representative, plus invited representatives from health plans, audiologists, and hearing aid dealers/fitters.

• Working group must submit findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2021 Regular Session convenes.

• Working group dissolves on January 30, 2021.