06/10/2025
Its 945pm, i just finishedc my last case of the day, i just stopped by the grocery store tonight to buy champagne. Tonight we toast to Dr Nitta's Victory tomorrow over the powers that be that want to silence doctors for speaking up for our patients. Then... after tomorrow we keep on!!! We rage against our silencing!
📰 FACT SHEET: Nitta vs. HMSA
Hawai‘i Supreme Court Oral Arguments – June 10, 2025 1030am at Hawaii Supreme Court, come join us support!
🔍 What the Case Is About
Dr. Frederick Nitta, a Hilo-based OB-GYN, filed a lawsuit against HMSA in 2022.
He alleges that HMSA repeatedly denied coverage for medications and treatments he deemed medically necessary, forcing patients to either forego care or pay out-of-pocket—despite having insurance.
Dr. Nitta claims HMSA retaliated against him for advocating for patient care.
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⚖️ Lower Court Ruling
A Kailua-Kona Judge ruled that three of HMSA’s contracts with Dr. Nitta were "unconscionable" and "unenforceable."
The judge found that HMSA’s arbitration clauses and practices unfairly shielded the insurer from accountability.
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🏛️ What's Happening Now
HMSA is appealing the lower court’s decision.
The Hawaiʻi Supreme Court is hearing oral arguments on June 10, 2025.
HMSA is attempting to limit the case to a technical dispute over arbitration—but advocates say the real issue is corporate obstruction of care.
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📌 Why This Matters
This case could determine whether doctors have legal protection when they challenge insurance denials on behalf of patients.
A ruling in favor of Dr. Nitta could:
Force insurers to reform denial and prior authorization practices
Make whistleblower protections stronger for physicians
Improve access to timely care for patients across Hawai‘i and beyond
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