IL SB2838

Prohibits hearing care organizations from requiring hearing instrument professionals to provide items or services at plan-set fees unless those items and services are actually covered benefits under the enrollee's plan.

Requires hearing care plans to clearly disclose covered and non-covered items in writing to enrollees and providers; plans owned by hearing aid manufacturers must disclose their ownership interest and specify which hearing aids they manufacture.

Mandates hearing care organizations register with the Illinois Department of Insurance beginning January 1, 2027, with initial and renewal fees capped at $500 and certificates valid for 2 years.

Establishes notice requirements for hearing instrument professionals who decline plan-set fees for non-covered services, including posting signage or providing written disclosure to patients about potential charges.

Makes violations of the Hearing Care Plan Contracts Article an unlawful practice under the Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act, effective January 1, 2027.