HI SCR18

Requests the State Auditor to assess the social and financial effects of mandating health insurance coverage for intravenous ketamine therapy to treat depression, as required by Hawaii Revised Statutes section 23-51 before such mandates can be considered.

References Senate Bill No. 967 of the Thirty-Third Legislature, which proposes requiring insurance coverage for a percentage of the costs of intravenous ketamine therapy for depression treatment.

Cites research from Current Neuropharmacology indicating ketamine has rapid antidepressant effects and is a valid treatment option for treatment-resistant depression.

Requires the Auditor to submit findings and recommendations to the Legislature no later than twenty days prior to the convening of the Regular Session of 2027.

Directs that certified copies be transmitted to the Auditor and Insurance Commissioner.