HCR 125 Summary

• Requests establishment of a Telehealth Working Group to examine the impact of widespread telehealth adoption during the COVID-19 pandemic and identify public policy initiatives to optimize telehealth use as Hawaii transitions out of the pandemic.

• Documents that telehealth usage in Hawaii increased by a factor of 65 during the pandemic and has remained at elevated levels, primarily through direct-to-consumer video visits and audio-only telephone visits without comprehensive physical exams or vital signs collection.

• Working group membership includes the Director of Health (co-chairperson), Healthcare Association of Hawaii representative (co-chairperson), Insurance Commissioner, Med-QUEST Division Administrator, Professional and Vocational Licensing Division representative, University of Hawaii Pacific Basin Telehealth Resource Center representative, and representatives from Hawaii Medical Association, Hawaii Psychiatric Medical Association, and Hawaii Health Information Exchange.

• Working group to invite additional members including two representatives from health care systems, three from health insurers/HMOs, and other members deemed necessary by co-chairpersons.

• Working group must submit findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than twenty days prior to the start of the 2025 Regular Session.