HI SCR61

Request the State Auditor to assess the social and financial effects of mandating health insurance coverage for hearing aids as proposed in S.B. No. 2439, S.D. 2 (2022).

Require the Auditor's assessment to include the number of Hawaii residents with hearing loss based on national prevalence rates, current replacement frequency standards and cost limitations from Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurers, and differences in replacement standards between adults and minors.

Require examination of existing medically necessary standards of care for selecting appropriate hearing aids and analysis of current and future hearing aid technology.

Require the Auditor to submit a report with findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2023 Regular Session convenes.

Transmit certified copies of the resolution to the Auditor and Insurance Commissioner.