A bill to direct the Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to clarify that implanted active middle ear hearing devices are prosthetics and are not subject to the hearing aid coverage exclusion under the Medicare program.

7/30/2024, 10:56 AM

Summary of Bill S 4829

Bill 118 s 4829, also known as the "Implanted Active Middle Ear Hearing Devices Prosthetics Clarification 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 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 barrier for individuals with hearing loss who rely on these devices to communicate effectively. However, implanted active middle ear hearing devices are different from traditional hearing aids as they are surgically implanted and provide more advanced technology to improve hearing.

By classifying these devices as prosthetics, the bill seeks to ensure that Medicare beneficiaries have access to the necessary hearing technology without facing financial burdens. This clarification would help individuals with hearing loss receive the care they need to maintain their quality of life and independence. Overall, Bill 118 s 4829 aims to improve access to essential hearing technology for Medicare beneficiaries by ensuring that implanted active middle ear hearing devices are recognized as prosthetics and not subject to the hearing aid coverage exclusion.

Current Status of Bill S 4829

Bill S 4829 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since July 29, 2024. Bill S 4829 was introduced during Congress 118 and was introduced to the Senate on July 29, 2024.  Bill S 4829's most recent activity was Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance. as of July 29, 2024

Bipartisan Support of Bill S 4829

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
1
Republican Sponsors
0
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
2
Democrat Cosponsors
0
Republican Cosponsors
2
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill S 4829

Primary Policy Focus


Alternate Title(s) of Bill S 4829

A bill to direct the Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to clarify that implanted active middle ear hearing devices are prosthetics and are not subject to the hearing aid coverage exclusion under the Medicare program.A bill to direct the Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to clarify that implanted active middle ear hearing devices are prosthetics and are not subject to the hearing aid coverage exclusion under the Medicare program.
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