S.B. 2073 Summary

• Allows audio-only telephone communication to qualify as telehealth for mental health and substance abuse diagnosis, evaluation, or treatment when patients receive services at home and the provider is technically capable of video but the patient cannot or declines video technology.

• Requires reimbursement for telehealth services via interactive telecommunications systems to be equivalent to face-to-face care across managed care plans, health insurance plans, and state health programs.

• Amends definitions of "interactive telecommunications system" in Hawaii Revised Statutes sections 346-59.1, 431:10A-116.3, 432:1-601.5, and 432D-23.5 to align with federal Medicare regulations.

• Clarifies that standard telephone, facsimile, and email communications do not constitute telehealth services except as provided for mental health services under the new audio-only provisions.

• Takes effect January 1, 2050 and repeals July 1, 2027, with prior statutory provisions to be reenacted upon repeal.