SB 317 - Currently, reimbursable MO HealthNet services include hearing aids for eligible needy children, pregnant women, and blind persons. This act mandates MO HealthNet coverage of medically necessary cochlear implants and hearing instruments for all eligible participants.

This act is identical to SB 1443 (2024) and substantially similar to provisions in HCS/HBs 2626 & 1918 (2024).

SARAH HASKINS

Statutes affected:
Introduced (1089S.01): 208.152

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Senate Committee Minutes:
SENATE COMMITTEE MINUTES Bill No.: SB 317
Sponsor: Black
Hearing Date: 2/19/2025


COMMITTEE: Families, Seniors and Health

CHAIRMAN: Carter

DATE REFERRED: 2/13/2025 DATE HEARING REQUESTED:



STAFF:
Sarah Haskins
Heidi Kolkmeyer
Dennis Rhodes
Blake Thompson


WITNESSES GIVING INFORMATION:



WITNESSES FOR:
Kathleen Sinks - Center for Hearing and Speech
Meagan Howerton - Missouri Ambulance Association, Missouri Speech Language Hearing Assoc.
Sarah Schlemeier - American College of OBGYNs, MO center for Public Health Excellence
Nikki Strong - MO Assisted Living Assoc. MO Healthcare Assoc., Centurion, Haleon
Rachel Bauer - Missouri State Medical Assoc.
Lucas Caldwell-McMillan - Empower Missouri
David Winton - Reach Foundation


WITNESSES AGAINST: