Ally’s Act
Summary
Ally's Act aims to amend several acts, including the Public Health Service Act, ERISA, the Internal Revenue Code, and the Affordable Care Act, to mandate coverage for hearing devices and systems under private health insurance plans. It ensures coverage for auditory implants, maintenance, upgrades, and related services for qualifying individuals with hearing loss. The bill seeks to standardize coverage and prevent limitations on medically necessary hearing treatments.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely increase access to hearing devices and related services for individuals with hearing loss who have private health insurance. It could lead to higher insurance premiums, but also improved quality of life for those affected. The Act standardizes coverage requirements, potentially reducing disparities in access to care.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to hearing aids and implants for those who need them.
- Standardized coverage across different insurance plans.
- Improved quality of life for individuals with hearing loss.
- May lead to earlier intervention and better outcomes for hearing-related issues.
- Prohibition on denial of coverage for medically necessary hearing devices and services.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential increase in health insurance premiums for all policyholders.
- Increased costs for insurance companies, which may be passed on to consumers.
- Possible administrative burden for insurance companies to implement the new coverage requirements.
- The definition of "qualifying individual" may be subject to interpretation, leading to disputes.
- The Act does not address hearing aid coverage for those without private insurance.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it aims to improve the health and well-being of individuals with hearing loss. Specifically, the preamble states the Constitution is intended to "promote the general Welfare". The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations. The bill falls under the powers granted to Congress under Article 1, Section 8, which allows Congress to levy taxes to pay the debts and provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United States.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).