HB 5433
Require all state‑regulated health insurance plans to provide meaningful coverage for hearing aids and to cover at least one annual audiological evaluation.
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed House of Delegates
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill requires all state-regulated health insurance plans in West Virginia to provide coverage for hearing aids and include at least one annual audiological evaluation. Plans must cover the cost of initial and replacement hearing aids, as well as necessary services like audiometric testing and adjustments. The coverage is capped at $1,400 per hearing-impaired ear every 36 months, and individuals can choose higher-priced hearing aids without penalty. The bill also addresses how this coverage interacts with federal healthcare laws.
Key provisions
- Requires all state-regulated health insurance plans to cover the cost of hearing aids.
- Mandates at least one annual audiological evaluation for covered individuals.
- Specifies coverage for initial and replacement hearing aids, with replacements needed at least every 36 months.
- Includes coverage for related services such as audiometric testing and hearing aid fittings and adjustments.
- Limits the total cost of hearing aid coverage to $1,400 per hearing-impaired ear every 36 months.
- Allows individuals to choose higher-priced hearing aids without financial penalties.
- Addresses how this coverage interacts with federal healthcare laws (Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act).
- Defines ‘hearing aid’ to include necessary accessories like ear molds.
Who is affected
- Individuals with hearing impairments
- Health insurance companies operating in West Virginia
- Healthcare providers (physicians)
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