SB2546 Summary

• Requires health insurance policies, HMO plans, and voluntary health service plans amended, delivered, issued, or renewed after the bill's effective date to cover hearing instruments and related services when prescribed by a licensed audiologist or physician.

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

• Allows hearing aid replacement once every 36 months, or sooner if a significant change in hearing (10 decibels HL or greater) is documented on a valid audiogram.

• Covers related services including audiological exams, replacement ear molds, and hearing instrument repairs at all times when prescribed by a hearing care professional.

• Prohibits insurers from paying claims for hearing aids if the same insured filed and received payment for a hearing aid claim within the previous 36 months from any insurer.