The proposed bill amends the Michigan Insurance Code of 1956 by adding Section 3406uu, which mandates that health insurance policies issued or renewed in the state must provide coverage for hearing aids and related services for qualified enrollees. This coverage includes a maximum of $3,000 per hearing aid every 36 months, with adjustments to this amount based on the Consumer Price Index starting January 1, 2026. Qualified enrollees have the option to purchase hearing aids that exceed this coverage limit, but they will be responsible for any additional costs. Insurers may also apply cost-sharing provisions such as deductibles or co-pays.

The bill defines key terms such as "audiologist," "hearing aid," and "qualified enrollee." A "qualified enrollee" is someone who has been evaluated by an audiologist and subsequently referred by an otolaryngologist for a hearing aid. The bill also outlines the types of hearing-related services and devices that are covered, including audiological examinations, hearing aid evaluations, and auditory training. This legislation aims to improve access to necessary hearing aids and services for individuals with hearing loss in Michigan.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 500.100, 500.8302