Hearing Device Coverage Clarification Act

Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

Bill 119 hr 1921, also known as the "Middle Ear Hearing Device Coverage Act," aims to address a specific issue related to Medicare coverage for hearing devices. The bill directs the Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to clarify that fully implanted active middle ear hearing devices are considered prosthetics and should not be subject to the hearing aid coverage exclusion under the Medicare program.

Currently, Medicare does not cover hearing aids, which can be a significant financial burden for individuals with hearing loss. However, fully implanted active middle ear hearing devices are different from traditional hearing aids as they are surgically implanted and provide more advanced hearing assistance.

By classifying these devices as prosthetics rather than hearing aids, this bill seeks to ensure that Medicare beneficiaries have access to the latest technology for treating hearing loss without facing prohibitive out-of-pocket costs. This clarification would help to improve the quality of life for individuals with hearing impairment and ensure that they have access to the most effective treatment options available. Overall, the Middle Ear Hearing Device Coverage Act aims to address a gap in Medicare coverage for advanced hearing devices and provide much-needed support for individuals with hearing loss.