SB 2645 Summary

• Allows standard telephone contacts to qualify as telehealth for behavioral health services, in addition to existing telehealth modalities like video conferencing and web-based communication

• Requires insurance reimbursement for behavioral health services provided through telehealth via standard telephone to be equivalent to reimbursement for the same services provided face-to-face

• Amends Hawaii Revised Statutes sections 346-59.1, 431:10A-116.3, 432:1-601.5, 432D-23.5, and 453-1.3 to incorporate telephone contacts as a qualifying telehealth method for behavioral health purposes

• Addresses barriers to mental health care access for vulnerable populations, including elderly, low-income, rural, and underserved individuals lacking broadband, equipment, or digital literacy for video conferencing

• Effective date: January 1, 2050