IL SB2516

Requires health insurance policies and managed care plans amended, delivered, issued, or renewed after the effective date to cover hearing instruments and related services when prescribed by a licensed audiologist, physician, or hearing instrument dispenser.

Mandates insurers provide coverage of up to $2,500 per hearing aid per impaired ear, subject to co-payments, co-insurance, deductibles, and out-of-pocket limits.

Allows hearing aids to be replaced once every 36 months, or at any time if there is a significant change in hearing status (defined as a 10 decibel change on audiogram); related services such as exams and repairs covered at all times when prescribed.

Prohibits insurers from paying hearing aid claims if a substantially identical claim was paid by any insurer within the 36 months prior to the current claim filing.

Applies coverage requirements to health insurance policies, Health Maintenance Organizations, and Voluntary Health Services Plans; becomes effective immediately upon enactment.