Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Hearing Aid Law for Children

  • Where can I find the text of the law? To read the text of the law, click on "Massachusetts Hearing Aid Law for Children" on the right side of this page under "Links." The citation for the law is: Part 1, Title XXII, Chapter 176B, Chapter 4EE.
  • What does the law provide? Chapter 233 provides insurance coverage for hearing aids for children 21 years old and younger up to $2,000 per hearing aid for each hearing impaired ear in each 36-month period.
  • When is the effective date of the law?The law applies to all health plans that are delivered, issued or renewed on or after January 1, 2013. This means that coverage becomes effective as policies are renewed throughout 2013. Following this year, coverage will remain continuous under health insurance policies. Before you begin the process of purchasing hearing aids, check with your health insurance carrier to verify the specific date on which your coverage will be effective. Example: Your health insurance plan renews on July 1st. Coverage becomes effective under your policy on July 1st. This means that you may not purchase hearing aids for your child or seek coverage for related services and supplies under this law until July 1st.
  • What does the $2,000 cap include?The $2,000 cap includes coverage for each hearing aid device. An insured may select a higher-priced hearing aid and pay the difference in cost above the $2,000 limit for the device. Plans must also cover all services related to a covered hearing aid device, including the initial hearing aid evaluation, fitting and adjustments and supplies, including ear molds. These amounts are not included in the $2,000 coverage limit that applies to the hearing aid device, but are covered separately and outright under your plan.
  • Are batteries covered? Yes. Coverage under this law includes related services, including the initial hearing aid evaluation, hearing aid fittings and adjustments and supplies. Batteries are covered under the "supplies" section of the law. A billing code already exists for hearing aid batteries- your dispensing audiologist should have this.
  • How about ear molds? Ear molds are covered under this law.
  • Who is covered? Children 21 years of age or younger who are covered under fully-insured plans.
  • Who is not covered?Children who are covered under self-insured plans are not covered by this law. A self-insured (or self-funded) plan is one in which the employer assumes the financial risk for providing health care benefits to its employees, even if an insurance company is used to process the claims. Self-insured plans are governed by federal ERISA laws and are not subject to state mandates or regulation by the state Division of Insurance. This means that self-insured employers will not be required to provide hearing aid coverage under Chapter 233.
  • How do I know if my plan is fully-insured?You may find out if your plan is fully-insured by contacting your insurance carrier or your Human Resources department at your place of employment.
  • What do I do if I find out that my plan is self-insured? You may advocate for your child! Contact your employer to explain why they should add this coverage to their insurance plan. Often employers will follow state mandates by adding similar coverage. One reason employers decide to self-insure is so that they may customize a plan to meet the specific needs of their workforce. If an employee is in need of specific coverage, an employer may consider adding the benefit. The final decision rests with your employer.
  • What if my plan has a high deductible? Chapter 233 allows carriers to apply deductibles, coinsurance, co-payments or out-of-pocket limits to hearing aid devices, supplies and services related to hearing aids, but they may not be greater than any applied to other benefits covered in the health plan. If you have a high deductible that would effectively cancel out the benefit afforded by this law, you may wish to shop around for another health insurance carrier. If this is not possible, consider appealing to your health insurance carrier to provide the coverage. Every health insurance carrier has a dispute resolution process and must consider your appeal.
  • Must I live in Massachusetts to be covered under this law?Not necessarily. If you work for an employer that is located in Massachusetts but reside outside of Massachusetts, you are most likely eligible for benefits under Chapter 233. To be sure, check with your Human Resources department.
  • What if I live in Massachusetts but work for an out-of-state employer? If your employer is located outside Massachusetts, you are most likely ineligible for benefits under Chapter 233 because your employer would be subject to insurance mandates and oversight by the state in which it is located. To be sure, check with your Human Resources department.
  • What do I do once I find out that my child is eligible to purchase hearing aids under this law? Once you determine that your child is covered by a fully-funded plan and are certain of your renewal date, you will need a written statement from your child’s treating physician that the hearing aids are necessary. Either your child’s pediatrician or ENT may provide this written statement. Then, your child’s audiologist will recommend a hearing aid that best fits your child.
  • Can my child be denied hearing aids depending on how the hearing loss occurred? No. Chapter 233 provides that a child must be afforded coverage for hearing aids if a treating physician or ENT issues a written statement that the hearing aids are necessary regardless of how the hearing loss occurred (e.g., at birth, late onset, accident, illness).
  • Is this law based on income levels? No. Any child 21 years of age or younger who resides in Massachusetts, is covered by a fully-insured health plan and meets the other requirements listed in the law is eligible to receive the benefit.
  • Is there anything that I need to know about talking to my health insurance company? Always get the full name, phone number and extension of the insurance representative with whom you speak in the event that you or someone else will need to follow up on the conversation. Take notes during your discussions and keep the notes in a file or notebook so that you may refer to them again, if necessary.
  • What if I am eligible for coverage under this law but my insurance company denies or delays coverage? If you are denied coverage or coverage is unduly delayed by your insurance company, you may file an appeal or grievance with your insurance company or you may contact the Bureau of Managed Care at the Division of Insurance in Boston to file a complaint by phone, fax or e-mail. You may also contact the Office of Patient Protection at the Department of Public Health in Boston.
  • Additional resources:Bureau of Managed Care Division of Insurance Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulations 1000 Washington Street, Suite 810 Boston, MA 02118 Tel: (617) 521-7372 Fax: (617) 521-7773 www.mass.gov/doi/ E-mail: bmc.mailbox@state.ma.us
  • Universal Newborn Hearing Screening Program Department of Public Health 250 Washington Street, 5th Floor Boston, MA 02108 Tel: 1-800-882-1435

Friday, October 26, 2012

Boston's Children Hospital Blog

Sending a big shout out to Boston's Children Hospital's pediatric health blog THRIVE for the great coverage on the ceremonial signing by Governor Patrick and sharing Lisa Adams' (MassHAFCC President and Co-Founder) personal story.  Be sure to see the adorable pictures of Lisa's boys!!

http://childrenshospitalblog.org/massachusetts-requires-insurance-companies-to-cover-hearing-aids-for-children/
Posted by at

90 comments:

  1. AnonymousNovember 28, 2012 at 1:56 AM

    This blog is truly awesome in all aspects.more info

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. MelinawatsonFebruary 3, 2014 at 10:15 AM

      attractive remarkable blog. I simply came over your blog and yearned to say that I have actually relished seeking your blog posts.
      escorts in hongkong.

      Delete
  2. UnknownFebruary 8, 2013 at 1:36 AM

    I have been getting a lot of useful and informative material in your website.
    Valentine's Day

    ReplyDelete
  3. UnknownApril 27, 2013 at 9:11 AM

    I guess this message is totally unparalleled.
    Cavan Chat Homepage

    ReplyDelete
  4. UnknownMay 2, 2013 at 3:47 AM

    I have been getting a lot of useful and informative material in your website. Click Astronomie Podcast Link

    ReplyDelete
  5. UnknownMay 2, 2013 at 8:44 AM

    Your articles are really fit authorized and incomparable.
    Kate Anal Tips And Tricks

    ReplyDelete
  6. AnonymousMay 3, 2013 at 6:49 AM

    Your affect is totally appreciative and newsy.
    More about Ango U5

    ReplyDelete
  7. AnonymousMay 4, 2013 at 1:05 AM

    I really wana thank you for providing such informative and qualitative material so often.Visit J Aron Ski

    ReplyDelete
  8. AnonymousMay 9, 2013 at 8:08 AM

    I was searching for many blogs site and now finally I have got this cool place with lots of information.
    online payday loans

    ReplyDelete
  9. AnonymousMay 13, 2013 at 8:30 AM

    Thanks friends, for providing such enlightening data.
    online payday loan

    ReplyDelete
  10. Avocet SteelMay 14, 2013 at 1:06 AM

    The quality of information that you are providing is simply marvelous.
    payday loans online

    ReplyDelete
  11. AnonymousMay 15, 2013 at 12:56 AM

    The caliber of information that you're offering is merely wonderful. GreenStart.net

    ReplyDelete
  12. UnknownMay 18, 2013 at 3:38 AM

    I actually found this blog and that is amazing thing I enjoy reading this easy to understand stuff. Keep it up. Welcome to Bangkok Condos

    ReplyDelete
  13. UnknownMay 20, 2013 at 5:34 AM

    I think each one is obtaining additional from this website, and your views are enjoyable in favor of new folks
    Relationship Issues With Finger Gate

    ReplyDelete
  14. UnknownMay 21, 2013 at 3:12 AM

    I'm planar by your table make up the superior production.
    Ceu411 Tips

    ReplyDelete
  15. gallantfelixMay 22, 2013 at 8:55 AM

    I want to say thank to you people for this great and helpful info. Thanks!!! Miss Finicky Homepage

    ReplyDelete
  16. UnknownMay 24, 2013 at 2:59 AM

    Fine method of telling, and enjoyable article to acquire factual statements
    Good Relationship With Forum Barcelos

    ReplyDelete
  17. Micheal HusseyMay 24, 2013 at 3:10 AM

    You guys present there are performing an excellent job.
    Sys BH Advice

    ReplyDelete
  18. UnknownMay 25, 2013 at 6:11 AM

    Your way to enlighten everything on this blog is actually pleasant, everyone manage to efficiently be familiar with it, Thanks a great deal. online payday loan

    ReplyDelete
  19. AnonymousMay 25, 2013 at 8:08 AM

    Your blogs stuff is purely enough for me personally.accident compensation

    ReplyDelete
  20. UnknownMay 27, 2013 at 2:51 AM

    The blog has offered the great knowledge I really enjoyed a lot by reading this. Postcard Mailing Service

    ReplyDelete
  21. Cool boyMay 27, 2013 at 6:14 AM

    Hi, having read this awesome written piece I’m also pleased to fairly share my familiarity here with colleagues.
    Direct Mail Marketing

    ReplyDelete
  22. Avocet SteelMay 27, 2013 at 9:00 AM

    I’m glad to see that having got your blog site I have solved my whole issues regarding searching the stuff.

    ppi reclaim

    ReplyDelete
  23. AnonymousMay 30, 2013 at 6:56 AM

    I see the greatest contents on your blog and I absolutely love reading them. mis sold ppi

    ReplyDelete
  24. UnknownJuly 1, 2013 at 8:29 AM

    You guys out there are performing a great job.
    paydayloan

    ReplyDelete
  25. UnknownJuly 2, 2013 at 4:39 AM

    You make sense out of the most complex topics.
    term life insurance rates

    ReplyDelete
  26. UnknownAugust 5, 2013 at 4:22 AM

    I'd be trampled if all sites gave articles like these awesome articles. Claim PPIClaim Back PPI

    ReplyDelete
  27. UnknownAugust 13, 2013 at 7:05 AM

    Outstanding blog, in my opinion site owners should acquire a great deal out of this blog its very user welcoming.
    whole life insurance rate

    ReplyDelete
  28. AnonymousAugust 14, 2013 at 6:43 AM

    I guess this blog is perfectly incomparable. advanced technology

    ReplyDelete
  29. UnknownAugust 19, 2013 at 1:51 AM

    andriod market download The stuff in the blogs blows out my mind.

    ReplyDelete
  30. UnknownAugust 19, 2013 at 6:15 AM

    This is really an excellent blog as well as its content. android community

    ReplyDelete
  31. UnknownAugust 23, 2013 at 8:08 AM

    Highly vigorous blog, I liked that much. Unity Funerals Service Relationship Tips

    ReplyDelete
  32. UnknownAugust 28, 2013 at 3:32 AM

    The complete blogs are really inconceivable and definitely everyone will share this information. car insurance

    ReplyDelete
  33. UnknownAugust 28, 2013 at 8:01 AM

    Outstanding blog, in my opinion site owners should acquire a great deal out of this blog its very user welcoming. Davenport House Physiotherapy

    ReplyDelete
  34. UnknownAugust 30, 2013 at 1:39 AM

    Every day I visit a number of blog sites to see content, however this offers quality based content. counter visitors

    ReplyDelete
  35. UnknownSeptember 25, 2013 at 5:48 AM

    I beyond doubt appreciate your articles and blogs PPI Claims

    ReplyDelete
  36. LeonaOctober 7, 2013 at 7:54 AM

    Thanks guys, for sharing such informative data.

    Click for Vzna Sedla

    ReplyDelete
  37. LeonaOctober 9, 2013 at 5:59 AM

    Extraordinary work you folks are doing with this webpage.
    Relationship with Western NPA

    ReplyDelete
  38. UnknownOctober 28, 2013 at 10:05 AM

    I would like to thank you for the efforts you have made in writing this article. I am hoping the same best work from you in the future as well.
    Website Designers Bangalore

    ReplyDelete
  39. UnknownNovember 2, 2013 at 7:01 AM

    I’m glad to find so many useful and informative data on your website.
    direct deposit loans

    ReplyDelete
  40. UnknownNovember 2, 2013 at 7:39 AM

    Recent times when internet has so much gossiping and stuff, your content really refreshes me. payday advance

    ReplyDelete
  41. AnonymousNovember 4, 2013 at 1:36 AM

    You posting are wonderful and informative.
    PPI Claims

    ReplyDelete
  42. LeonaNovember 5, 2013 at 2:30 AM

    I feel pleasure to read the content that you are posting.
    PPI

    ReplyDelete
  43. LeonaNovember 5, 2013 at 6:04 AM

    I really like this great job folks.
    ppi compensation claims

    ReplyDelete
  44. AnonymousNovember 6, 2013 at 7:46 AM

    Your website is for sure worth bookmarking.
    Read More about Ron1

    ReplyDelete
  45. AnonymousNovember 11, 2013 at 4:55 AM

    I admired your helpful words. Top class contribution. I really hope you’ll write more. I'll continue looking for.
    tutors in english

    ReplyDelete
  46. UnknownNovember 26, 2013 at 2:46 AM

    You people have actually provided the best blogs that are easy to understand for the folks.Free Classified Ads Pakistan

    ReplyDelete
  47. AnonymousNovember 29, 2013 at 5:56 AM

    Superb way of explaining, and great blog to get wonderful information.
    pay day loans

    ReplyDelete
  48. UnknownNovember 29, 2013 at 5:58 AM

    This is my very first time that I am visiting here and I’m truly pleasurable to see everything at one place. best android applications

    ReplyDelete
  49. UnknownNovember 30, 2013 at 12:33 AM

    I'd like to take the power of thanking you for that specialized guidance I've constantly enjoyed viewing your blog.
    flashback counter

    ReplyDelete
  50. anjila smithNovember 30, 2013 at 4:09 AM

    Hi buddies, it is great written piece entirely defined, continue the good work constantly. web applications

    ReplyDelete
  51. Micheal HusseyDecember 4, 2013 at 1:25 AM

    I admired your helpful words. Top class contribution. I really hope you’ll write more. I'll continue looking for.
    infographics design

    ReplyDelete
  52. Cool boyDecember 4, 2013 at 1:45 AM

    The Info in the blog is out of this world, I so want to read more.good infographics

    ReplyDelete
  53. UnknownDecember 5, 2013 at 3:20 AM

    Those who are still far from your site they are missing the more brilliant stuff of the blogs.
    infographics design

    ReplyDelete
  54. anjila smithDecember 5, 2013 at 6:10 AM

    I know this is quality based blogs along with other stuff. infographics design

    ReplyDelete
  55. UnknownDecember 7, 2013 at 1:17 AM

    This blog has very distinct features. Thanks infographic

    ReplyDelete
  56. Big showDecember 12, 2013 at 7:00 AM

    The content on your web site never confuses me. Keep it up!!auto insurance

    ReplyDelete
  57. AnonymousDecember 13, 2013 at 1:27 AM

    If you really desire to get such type of information, visit this blog quickly. car insurance quotes

    ReplyDelete
  58. UnknownDecember 21, 2013 at 5:35 AM

    Your articles are very well written and unique.compare auto insurance rates

    ReplyDelete
  59. zacharyrizzutoJanuary 4, 2014 at 1:55 AM

    Amazing blogs you have guys!! Keeps the ball rolling…..
    ee customer service

    ReplyDelete
  60. AnonymousJanuary 10, 2014 at 6:56 AM

    I’m sure you will provide the more awesome blogs like these blogs that I’ve enjoyed a lot.car insurane

    ReplyDelete
  61. Cool boyJanuary 11, 2014 at 1:45 AM

    I think I have really come on the right place for getting the perfect info.weight loss pills that work

    ReplyDelete
  62. UnknownJanuary 11, 2014 at 4:27 AM

    I think I have really come on the right place for getting the perfect info. title loan

    ReplyDelete
  63. UnknownJanuary 13, 2014 at 7:46 AM

    I want to say many more thanks for providing instructive and qualitative stuff here.visit us

    ReplyDelete
  64. AnonymousJanuary 15, 2014 at 4:00 AM

    This blog post is really great; the standard stuff of the post is genuinely amazing. North Carolina cash loans

    ReplyDelete
  65. Sir ThomaJanuary 24, 2014 at 3:16 AM

    You people have actually provided the best blogs that are easy to understand for the folks.
    Detox Drinks

    ReplyDelete
  66. UnknownFebruary 3, 2014 at 1:10 AM

    I suppose I've selected an unbelievable and interesting blog. comment pirater un compte facebook

    ReplyDelete
  67. UnknownFebruary 6, 2014 at 7:19 AM

    These blogs are quite incredible that have provided the best knowledge. lexington law reviews

    ReplyDelete
  68. AnonymousFebruary 8, 2014 at 7:37 AM

    I continuously continue coming to your website once more simply in case you have posted new contents.Best hair Dye brand

    ReplyDelete
  69. AnonymousMarch 3, 2014 at 5:46 AM

    Your way to enlighten everything on this blog is actually pleasant, everyone manage to efficiently be familiar with it, Thanks a great deal.



    Software House in Hyderabad Pakistan

    ReplyDelete
  70. AnonymousMarch 5, 2014 at 5:41 AM

    You guys allow it to be quite simple for all your folks available.
    vietnam visa

    ReplyDelete
  71. UnknownMarch 8, 2014 at 2:35 AM

    Your site is for sure worth bookmarking. vietnam travel

    ReplyDelete
  72. zacharyrizzutoMarch 14, 2014 at 1:31 AM

    Awesome work! That is quite appreciated. I hope you’ll get more success.
    find a car insurance

    ReplyDelete
  73. AnonymousMarch 17, 2014 at 2:57 AM

    Highly vigorous blog, I liked that much.
    compare auto insurance rates

    ReplyDelete
  74. kingloinMarch 20, 2014 at 1:55 AM

    I suppose I've selected an unbelievable and interesting blog.

    vietnam travel

    ReplyDelete
  75. AnonymousMarch 25, 2014 at 1:19 AM

    Awesome! Immense information there.
    best credit repair service

    ReplyDelete
  76. AnonymousApril 3, 2014 at 2:32 AM

    Wonderful, just what a blog it is! This blog has provided the helpful data to us continue the good work.is bubblegum casting legitimate

    ReplyDelete
  77. UnknownApril 8, 2014 at 5:40 AM

    Awesome blog! Now In anticipation of a follow-up …. dwi new york

    ReplyDelete
  78. UnknownApril 8, 2014 at 5:44 AM

    Awesome blog! Now In anticipation of a follow-up …. dwi new york

    ReplyDelete
  79. UnknownApril 8, 2014 at 7:59 AM

    Every day I visit a number of blog sites to see content, however this offers quality based content. criminal lawyer ny

    ReplyDelete
  80. UnknownApril 15, 2014 at 5:16 AM

    I got this blog site through my friends and when I searched this really there were informative articles at the place. bubblegum casting reviews

    ReplyDelete
  81. Cool boyJune 30, 2014 at 2:03 AM

    The information you have given in the blog really marvelous and more interesting.book a apartment marrakech

    ReplyDelete
  82. AnonymousAugust 6, 2014 at 7:50 AM

    You completely duplication our mean and the difference of our information. patterson eye clinic

    ReplyDelete
  83. AnonymousOctober 22, 2014 at 8:22 AM

    I love to read and appreciate your work. Medical Negligence Solicitors

    ReplyDelete
  84. UnknownOctober 30, 2014 at 5:25 AM

    Thanks for sharing this blog. I got lot of information from this blog. It is a great and very instructive blog. Do u know about hearing dealers in Bangalore

    ReplyDelete
  85. AnonymousDecember 24, 2014 at 6:02 AM

    Your articles are purely enough for me. best electric shavor 2014

    ReplyDelete
  86. AnonymousDecember 27, 2014 at 7:15 AM

    Im inspired with the exceptional and instructive contents that you provide in such short timing. Best Infographic

    ReplyDelete
  87. AnonymousJanuary 10, 2015 at 4:07 AM

    I wonder why other professionals don’t notice your website much m glad I found this. blog post service

    ReplyDelete
  88. UnknownDecember 7, 2015 at 3:26 AM

    Hello Everybody,
    My name is Mrs Sharon Sim. I live in Singapore and i am a happy woman today? and i told my self that any lender that rescue my family from our poor situation, i will refer any person that is looking for loan to him, he gave me happiness to me and my family, i was in need of a loan of S$250,000.00 to start my life all over as i am a single mother with 3 kids I met this honest and GOD fearing man loan lender that help me with a loan of S$250,000.00 SG. Dollar, he is a GOD fearing man, if you are in need of loan and you will pay back the loan please contact him tell him that is Mrs Sharon, that refer you to him. contact Dr Purva Pius,via email:(urgentloan22@gmail.com) Thank you.

    ReplyDelete
  89. UnknownFebruary 17, 2016 at 2:30 AM

    Fantastic write-up together with excellent website, I enjoy these kinds of challenging content articles keep this specific somebody.Bulk Sms Providers

    ReplyDelete

Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)