There are several states with unique health insurance laws and, over the past several years, Hawaii health insurance has received a lot of attention for its unusual stipulations. Hawaiian health insurance policies are typically less expensive than health insurance policies in other states, and the state's health insurance laws are certainly a major reason for this. Here's an overview of what health insurance buyers should know about Hawaii and its unique health insurance laws.

The most notable difference between Hawaii's health insurance law and the laws of other states is Hawaii's requirement that all companies provide health insurance for employees working 20 hours per week or more. Part-time workers must be covered under employers' health insurance plans and, as such, Hawaii has a very unique health insurance structure from other states. About 90% of the state's population is insured. This has led to lower Hawaii health insurance costs because Hawaii residents are more likely to seek out medical care early. While the state has a higher-than-average incidence of cancer, early treatment means lower medical care costs and better chances of complete recovery for patients. Overall, Hawaii health insurance is inexpensive — the state has the second lowest insurance premiums in the United States, which is remarkable considering Hawaiian residents' relatively high chance of developing heart disease, cancer and other conditions.

Hawaii's unique health insurance system has been used by politicians as an example of a successful insurance mandate. There have been very few legal challenges or calls for repeal of Hawaiian health insurance law, as state residents largely support the measures. The combination of low rates and better overall health care has been used as an example of what to expect when the national health insurance mandate takes effect. For residents of the state, Hawaii's unique health insurance system has its own challenges. Employers must carefully evaluate insurance companies before deciding how to insure employees, as slight differences in rates can add up to a major expense. Self-employed Hawaiian workers benefit from lower insurance rates, but must also spend time researching their policies to avoid overpaying.

Hawaiian health insurance buyers enjoy one of the least expensive and most protective systems of health insurance laws in the United States. Recent additions to state law such as a high-risk insurance pool make it even easier for Hawaiian residents to find insurance, even if they aren't employed. Since, all employers have to offer health insurance policies to their part-time workers, it's rare for any state resident to go uninsured. Hawaii's unique health insurance system is a successful example of the benefits of an insurance mandate.