November 2021 Health Policy Update
ASHA monitors health policy updates in both public and private health plans across the United States. Below are the latest updates that could impact you or those you serve.
- Blue Cross Blue Shield North Dakota: An updated cochlear implant policy was published to reflect the newest Medicaid expansion plans.
- Blue Cross Blue Shield North Dakota: An updated speech generating device policy was published to reflect the newest Medicaid expansion plans.
- Blue Cross Blue Shield North Dakota: An updated speech therapy policy was published to reflect the newest Medicaid expansion plans.
- Hawaii Medical Services Association: An updated policy for hearing aid coverage was published for ACA plans. Coverage of hearing aid repairs has been added as a separate section, requiring preauthorization and was removed from the non-coverage list.
- Paramount [PDF]: An updated cochlear implant and auditory brainstem implant policy was published with expanded definitions and a more detailed outline of plan coverage including expanded age requirement details.
- Select Health [PDF]: An updated policy for ear, nose, and throat conditions was published that removes prior authorization requirements for certain patients.
- United Healthcare (Florida Medicaid plan) [PDF]: An updated policy was published that allows SLP-A supervision by a supervisor offsite if they are available via synchronous telecommunication (as per Florida rules). The policy also removes the requirement that evaluations must include both IEP/IFSP and notes from the therapist for documentation of collaboration with the early intervention team.
