MS HB168

Requires all individual and group health insurance policies, service contracts, HMO contracts, self-insured arrangements, and managed care entities issued or renewed on or after July 1, 2017, to cover hearing aids and services for deaf and hearing impaired dependent children under age 21.

Coverage requires a written order from a prescribing physician stating the child is deaf or hearing impaired and treatment is medically cleared, and includes all hearing examinations and tests.

Dependent children cannot be charged deductibles or coinsurance greater than those for similar benefits; if no similar benefit exists, deductibles cannot materially diminish the value of the required coverage.

Reimbursement rates to health care providers must equal or exceed rates paid under the Medicaid program.

Plans are not required to refer patients to nonparticipating providers if appropriate participating providers are available and accessible; if a referral to a nonparticipating provider occurs, services are provided at no additional cost beyond what would be charged for participating provider services.