An Act Amend Title 18 And Title 29 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Hearing Aid Coverage For Individuals Younger Than 24 Years Old.
The proposed changes outlined in SB117 will directly influence the coverage requirements for private health insurance policies within Delaware. By mandating that insurance policies cover at least one hearing aid for each ear every three years, or sooner when found medically necessary by a hearing care professional, the bill aims to alleviate the financial burden on families seeking necessary medical devices for their children. Additionally, the bill mandates annual coverage for earmolds which are crucial for the proper fitting and functioning of hearing aids. This comprehensive coverage addresses the gap that currently exists and supports better outcomes for young individuals with hearing impairments.
Senate Bill 117, also known as the Act to Amend Title 18 and Title 29 of the Delaware Code relating to hearing aid coverage, aims to address the insufficient coverage for hearing aids for individuals younger than 24 years old. Currently, Delaware mandates a minimum coverage of $1,000 per hearing aid for this age group, but the high costs of pediatric hearing aids, which can range from $3,000 to $5,000, impose a significant financial burden on families not eligible for Medicaid benefits. This bill seeks to increase the minimum required coverage by ensuring that insurers cover the full costs of medically necessary hearing aids and related services for young individuals, enhancing access to vital auditory support for language development and educational success.
There is overall support for SB117 among legislators and advocacy groups focused on healthcare and child development, reflecting a consensus on the necessity of adequate hearing aid coverage. Proponents argue that improved access to hearing aids will facilitate better language development and educational opportunities for children identified as deaf or hard of hearing. However, some concern exists regarding potential impacts on insurance premiums and the burden on private insurers to meet the new requirements. Balancing financial considerations with the critical needs of young people is at the forefront of the discussions surrounding the bill.
Key points of contention related to SB117 include concerns from insurance companies about the possible increase in premiums and the implications of mandated coverage on their operational costs. Additionally, there are discussions regarding the scope of what constitutes a medically necessary hearing aid, prompting debates on how 'medical necessity' is defined and assessed. Despite these concerns, the prevailing view among child development advocates and medical professionals is that the bill is a necessary step towards ensuring that children have the tools they need for successful communication and learning experiences.