Maryland Governor’s Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, Department of Health Expand Hearing Aid Coverage through Maryland Medicaid
Hearing Aids Now Available for Eligible Marylanders Over Age 21
ANNAPOLIS, MD – With 2019 health insurance plans ready to begin January 1, the Governor’s Office of Deaf and Hard of Hearing (ODHH) and the Maryland Department of Health (MDH) announced a recent change in Maryland Medicaid regulations that allow coverage for medically necessary hearing aids, cochlear implants, and auditory osseointegrated devices for adults over the age of 21 in accordance with federal requirements. Prior to July 1, 2018, Maryland Medicaid only covered hearing aids and cochlear implants for children and young adults under 21 years old.
“Our office received calls asking for financial assistance to help cover the cost of hearing aids due to the high out-of-pocket costs and the lack of coverage through Maryland Medicaid, so we worked with the Department of Health to address this significant gap,” said Kelby Brick, Director of the Governor’s Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. “The Hogan administration’s expansion of Maryland Medicaid coverage for adults provides tremendous financial relief for thousands of eligible Marylanders in need of these vital services.”
Marylanders can access these services by contacting their primary care physician for a referral to an audiologist who can complete an assessment for audiology services.
“We are pleased to make progress towards achieving equitable health care for all Marylanders and the ability to now offer hearing aids and cochlear implants to those over the age of 21,” said Department of Health Secretary Robert R. Neall. “This expansion of coverage is another example of this administration’s commitment to serving Maryland’s 1.2 million deaf and hard of hearing residents.”
More information on the regulation changes can be found on COMAR online. State residents who are eligible for Maryland Medicaid can learn more at www.marylandhealthconnection.gov.
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About the Governor’s Office of the Deaf & Hard of Hearing
The Governor’s Office of the Deaf & Hard of Hearing serves as a coordinating office that promotes equal access and the general welfare of the Deaf and hard of hearing by addressing policy gaps, providing expertise, and facilitating access to resources. Learn more by visiting our website at odhh.maryland.govand connect with us on Facebook and Twitter.
About the Maryland Department of Health
The Maryland Department of Health is the State agency that protects Maryland’s public health. We work together to promote and improve the health and safety of all Marylanders through disease prevention, access to care, quality management, and community engagement. Stay connected: http://www.twitter.com/MDHealthDept and http://www.facebook.com/MarylandDHMH.
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