MS HB13

Requires all individual and group health insurance policies, HMOs, and self-insured plans in Mississippi to cover hearing aids and related services for dependent children under 21 years of age who are deaf or hearing impaired

Coverage must include hearing examinations, tests, and hearing aids (defined as nonsurgical, wearable amplification devices including parts, ear molds, and repairs) when prescribed by a physician and fitted by a licensed audiologist

Insurers may limit coverage to one hearing aid per hearing-impaired ear every 36 months

Deductibles and coinsurance for hearing testing cannot exceed those for similar benefits, and reimbursement to providers must equal or exceed Medicaid rates

Prohibits insurers from denying coverage, refusing to contract, or terminating coverage solely because an individual has been diagnosed with hearing loss

Effective date of July 1, 2021