SPRINGFIELD – Hearing aids will be covered by insurance providers under a new law backed by State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel.

“People who need hearing aids shouldn’t have to pay high out-of-pocket prices,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “It’s essential to have access to devices that improve a person’s daily life.”

The new law requires insurers to provide coverage for everyone if their doctor prescribes a hearing instrument – which can cost up to $4,000. The law builds upon a 2018 measure that required insurance to cover hearing aids for children under the age of 18.

“Doctors prescribe hearing aids the same as they do medicine,” Loughran Cappel said. “We are removing the barriers for people to get hearing aids without worrying about the cost.”

House Bill 2443 takes effect Jan. 1, 2025.