Connecticut Senate Bill SB00315

Connecticut 2021 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/21
• Refer: 1/25/21

Caption

An Act Requiring Health Insurance Coverage For Cochlear Implant Surgery.

Impact

Should SB00315 be enacted, it would amend Title 38a of the general statutes to integrate cochlear implant surgery into the list of services that health insurance policies must cover. This change would particularly benefit individuals who might otherwise be unable to afford such costly procedures. The expansion of insurance coverage is expected to increase the number of people receiving cochlear implants, thereby improving their auditory capabilities and social integration. Additionally, it might set a precedent for further expansions of coverage in other areas related to hearing and auditory health.

Summary

SB00315 is a proposed act aimed at requiring health insurance providers, both individual and group, to cover cochlear implant surgery for individuals diagnosed with hearing loss. The bill seeks to increase access to this surgical intervention, which can significantly enhance the quality of life for those suffering from severe hearing impairments. By mandating coverage, the bill would alleviate financial burdens on families affected by hearing loss and promote better health outcomes through early and effective treatment.

Contention

There could be points of contention surrounding SB00315, particularly regarding the costs associated with mandating coverage. Some stakeholders may argue that the bill could lead to increased premiums for all policyholders as insurers adapt to cover these additional costs. Others may raise concerns about the criteria for determining eligibility for cochlear implant surgery coverage, fearing potential bureaucratic hurdles or limitations that could affect access for some patients. Overall, the success of this legislation would likely depend on balancing cost implications with the critical need for accessible healthcare options for individuals with hearing loss.