Mandates that health service providers inform patients of coverage at the point of service.

A BILL FOR AN ACT

SECTION 1. Section 431:10-109, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended to read as follows:

"[§431:10-109] Disclosure of health care coverage and benefits. (a) In order to ensure that all individuals understand their health care options and are able to make informed decisions, all insurers shall provide current and prospective insureds with written disclosure of coverages and benefits, including information on coverage principles and any exclusions or restrictions on coverage.

The information provided shall be current, understandable, and available prior to the issuance of a policy, and upon request after the policy has been issued.

(b) In order to ensure that all individuals understand the health care coverage options and are able to make informed decisions, all health care providers shall inform patients, at the point of service, if their insurance fully covers the cost of service. If their insurance does not fully cover the cost of the service needed, the health care provider shall inform the patient of any options under their insurance policy which will allow for greater insurance coverage."

SECTION 2. New statutory material is underscored.

SECTION 3. This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2005.