An Act Concerning Health Insurance Coverage For Hearing Aids.
Impact
If enacted, HB05269 would have a significant impact on the state's health insurance landscape, specifically regarding who is covered for hearing aids. It serves to alleviate some of the financial burdens faced by a vulnerable population, promoting greater accessibility to hearing aids, which are crucial for improving communication and quality of life. This change could encourage better auditory health outcomes for individuals affected by severe hearing loss, fostering greater inclusion in community and social activities.
Summary
House Bill 05269 aims to improve access to hearing aids for individuals suffering from significant hearing loss (90% or greater) by mandating health insurance coverage for these essential devices. The bill intends to amend the general statutes, specifically sections 38a-490b and 38a-516b, to ensure that individuals with severe hearing impairment can obtain necessary hearing aids without prohibitive costs. The provision of a graduated deductible is meant to support a fairer financial approach, allowing for better management of out-of-pocket expenses based on individual circumstances.
Contention
While advocates for the bill argue that it is a necessary step toward equity in healthcare access, there may be concerns regarding the potential increase in health insurance premiums as providers adjust to cover these new requirements. Some stakeholders might contest that the resources allocated for covering hearing aids could detract from other necessary medical services. There are also potential worries among insurance providers about how the graduated deductible will be structured and its implications for patient out-of-pocket costs.
An Act Concerning Insurance Market Conduct And Insurance Licensing, The Insurance Department's Technical Corrections And Other Revisions To The Insurance Statutes And Captive Insurance.