This bill amends Section 6 of P.L.1968, c.413 (C.30:4D-6) to expand Medicaid coverage for assistive devices for the hearing impaired. It specifically includes expenses for unilateral or bilateral hearing aids, cochlear implants, and auditory osseointegrated devices, along with any related accessories or services that are deemed medically necessary and prescribed by a licensed physician or audiologist. The bill also defines key terms such as "auditory osseointegrated device," "cochlear implant," "hearing aid," "unilateral," and "bilateral" to clarify the types of devices covered under this expanded Medicaid provision.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that payments for these services will be made in full to the provider, prohibiting any additional charges to the recipient or their family. It also states that no copayment or cost-sharing shall be imposed on eligible individuals, except as required by federal law. The Commissioner of Human Services is required to apply for necessary state plan amendments or waivers to implement these provisions and secure federal financial participation. The act is set to take effect on the first day of the fourth month following its enactment, with provisions for anticipatory administrative actions to facilitate implementation.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 30:4D-6