Health department backs bill to authorize standing orders for preventive services; opponents cite liability concerns

The Disease Outbreak Control Division and other public‑health witnesses told senators HB1898 HD2 would enable the Department of Health to recommend standing orders for medications and vaccines and to create a statewide list of preventive services that insurers would cover.

Nathan Tan of the Disease Outbreak Control Division said the department stands by its written testimony and asked that, if the measure passes, it be given a good date for implementation. Supporters including public‑health nonprofits and medical associations urged the committee to pass the measure to protect access to preventive services.

Opponents, including individual witnesses and faith groups, argued the bill gives too much authority to DOH and removes liability for recommended services. Several speakers asked why the bill shields the department from liability and said adults should make their own medical choices. Committee members raised concerns about whether the bill would conflict with the Hawaii Prepaid Health Care Act and asked the insurance division and Attorney General to review potential interactions.

The Department of Health reported recent vaccine‑preventable disease activity — a wind‑down of a chickenpox outbreak on Kauai and a recent measles case with wastewater detection — and explained vaccines reduce infection risk though do not make it zero. The committee passed a recommendation with technical amendments and asked for further analysis from the insurance commissioner and coordination with the Attorney General's office before the next committee stage.