The bill proposes amendments to the General Laws concerning health insurance coverage for hearing aids, increasing the coverage amount from $1,500 to $2,000 per ear, every three years, effective January 1, 2024. It removes the previous lower coverage provision of $700 per ear for individuals aged 19 years and older, establishing a uniform coverage amount regardless of age. The changes apply to various health insurance policies, including individual or group contracts, hospital or medical expense insurance policies, plans, or group policies delivered, issued for delivery, or renewed within the state.

Furthermore, the bill introduces the option for an additional rider for hearing aid coverage in group health insurance contracts or policies. It defines "hearing aid" and allows insurers the discretion to select the providers of hearing aids with whom they contract. Insurers may also implement managed care, medical necessity, or utilization review processes. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage, ensuring that the updated coverage amounts are available by the beginning of 2024. There are no specific insertions or deletions from the current law mentioned, other than the increase in coverage amount and the removal of the age-based coverage distinction.

Statutes affected:
567: 27-18-60, 27-19-51, 27-20-46, 27-41-63