HB 472 Summary

• Exempts telehealth-related gifts (materials, equipment, labor, services) from state procurement contract requirements if necessary for telehealth services, with agencies required to report gifts to the state procurement office.

• Authorizes advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) to provide telehealth services to patients in Hawaii, including those without a Hawaii license if they hold an active license in another state or were previously licensed in Hawaii with no revocation/suspension.

• Allows physicians, osteopathic physicians, and physician assistants to establish patient relationships via telehealth without a Hawaii license if they meet specified licensing requirements in their home state.

• Permits out-of-state licensed mental health counselors, psychologists, social workers, and marriage and family therapists to provide telehealth services to Hawaii patients only with pre-existing professional relationships from their home state, prohibiting solicitation of new clients.

• Clarifies that telehealth does not include standard phone contacts, facsimile transmissions, or email text, and requires equal reimbursement for telehealth behavioral health services compared to face-to-face care; effective July 1, 2050.