HI HR21

Establishes a working group to review and report on hearing aid costs and coverage complexities by health insurers in Hawaii.

Working group shall examine hearing aid categories covered by each health plan, coverage levels including co-pays and deductibles, medical necessity and accessibility of different hearing aid types, and recommended coverage parameters such as age limits and replacement frequency.

Working group composition includes one House member (co-chair designated by Speaker), one Senate member (co-chair designated by Senate President), Insurance Commissioner, Med-QUEST Division Administrator, and one Attorney General representative.

Co-chairs shall invite representatives from each health plan operating in Hawaii, a licensed audiologist, a hearing aid dealer or fitter, and other recommended individuals to participate in the working group.

Working group must submit findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the Regular Session of 2021, and shall dissolve on January 30, 2021.