REQUESTING THE AUDITOR TO ASSESS THE SOCIAL AND FINANCIAL EFFECTS OF MANDATORY HEALTH INSURANCE COVERAGE FOR BIOMARKER TESTING.

HCR 35 requests Hawaii's Auditor to reassess the social and financial effects of mandating health insurance coverage for biomarker testing, following reports that insurers still deny or delay coverage despite existing requirements. It directly affects patients needing biomarker tests (used for diagnosing conditions like cancer or Alzheimer's) and insurers who determine coverage. The resolution stems from concerns that insurers' medical director approvals create access barriers, forcing patients to pay out-of-pocket or appeal denials even when doctors deem tests medically necessary. The Auditor will evaluate whether mandatory coverage - already required by prior law (HB2223) - effectively improves access without financial or social impacts. This procedural resolution seeks updated analysis to address persistent coverage gaps.