NC S375

Requires all health benefit plans, including the State Health Plan for Teachers and State Employees, to cover one hearing aid per hearing-impaired ear up to $2,500 per hearing aid every 36 months for covered individuals under 22 years old.

Coverage includes initial hearing aids, replacement hearing aids no more frequently than every 36 months, new aids when alterations cannot meet individual needs, and related services such as evaluation, fitting, and adjustments.

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

Allows insurers to apply utilization review criteria to determine medical necessity in accordance with state requirements, including offering an appeal process and external review procedures.

Becomes effective March 1, 2010, for health benefit plans delivered, issued for delivery, or renewed on or after that date.