This week, members of the Kentukcy Senate passed a measure to increase healthcare coverage for hearing impaired children across the commonwealth.
State Rep. Samara Heavrin, R-Leitchfield, who is Chair of the House Families and Children Standing Committee, sponsored House Bill 164 and has championed this legislation to allow additional funds for hearing aids.
“I am proud to sponsor this legislation that will make a meaningful difference for children and families across Kentucky,” Heavrin said. “When a constituent from Grayson County shared their story with me, it underscored just how critical access to hearing care is. It is my honor as a public servant to advocate for this measure and to further serve my district.”
The bill would increase the coverage amount from $1,400 to up to $2,500 per impaired ear. This would include hearing aids, attachments, accessories, and earmolds.
“House Bill 164 is about making sure every child has the opportunity to hear, learn, and thrive,” Heavrin said. “By increasing coverage for hearing aids, we are easing the financial burden on families and ensuring children receive the tools they need for healthy development.”
In addition to expanding coverage, the bill also establishes network adequacy requirements relating to the provision of hearing aids, Heavrin’s office said. By requiring insurers to maintain a reasonably adequate and accessible network of audiologists, the bill ensures that children who need hearing aids can receive timely evaluations, fittings, and follow-up care without long travel distances or excessive wait times.
“This legislation goes beyond affordability by also improving access to care across the commonwealth,” Heavrin added. “By strengthening provider networks, we are helping ensure that children can receive timely, high-quality hearing services close to home.”
HB 164 has been delivered to the governor. To learn more about the measure, visit legislature.ky.gov.
