OH HB656

Health benefit plans must cover one hearing aid per hearing-impaired ear up to $1,400 every 36 months for covered persons under 22 years of age, including all related assessment and fitting services

Covered persons may choose a higher-priced hearing aid and pay the difference above $1,400 without penalty or cost-sharing restrictions

The Medicaid program must cover hearing aids for recipients of any age who need them as demonstrated by a hearing test meeting standards established by rule

Health plan issuers are not required to pay for hearing aids if the covered person received the same coverage from any health benefit plan within the previous 36 months

The new requirements apply to health benefit plans delivered, issued, modified, or renewed on or after the bill's effective date