NC H589

Requires all health benefit plans, including the State Health Plan for Teachers and State Employees, to cover hearing aids for individuals under age 22 at up to $2,500 per hearing aid per ear every 36 months.

Coverage includes initial and replacement hearing aids, new aids when alterations cannot meet needs, and services such as evaluation, fitting, adjustments, and ear molds ordered by a physician or licensed audiologist.

Applies the same deductibles, coinsurance, and other limitations to hearing aid coverage as apply to similar services under each health benefit plan.

Allows insurers to apply utilization review criteria to determine medical necessity in accordance with existing requirements, including appeal processes and external review procedures.

Effective January 1, 2011 for health benefit plans delivered, issued, or renewed on or after that date.