Path: utzoo!censor!geac!torsqnt!news-server.csri.toronto.edu!cs.utexas.edu!yale!bunker!wtm
From: wtm@bunker.uucp (Bill Mcgarry)
Newsgroups: misc.handicap
Subject: Hearing aids and insurance
Message-ID: <15878@bunker.UUCP>
Date: 27 Nov 90 17:22:33 GMT
Sender: wtm@bunker.UUCP
Reply-To: wtm@bunker.uucp (Bill Mcgarry)
Distribution: misc
Organization: The Handicap News, Shelton CT (203) 337-1607
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Approved: wtm@bunker.UUCP
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Index Number: 11970

Alexander, my son, recently got two Opticon hearing aids for a total
cost of approximately $ 1400.  Our company insurance is Aetna Insurance
and apparently, there is a clause in the plan that says that hearing 
aids are not covered.  I'm in the process of trying to fight this
since in my son's case, his hearing loss is considered
"life-threatening" (Alexander has Down Syndrome).  The personnel
department in my company have not been very supportive since they
feel that most insurance plans do NOT cover hearing aids.  Yet,
his doctors, therapists and the hearing aid center all are shocked
that the aids are not covered.
 
So I need some input from you folks -- does your insurance company
cover hearing aids?  Has anyone here managed to fight the
insurance company for hearing aids and won?  Company names would
also be appreciated (both the company that you work for and the
insurance company).
 
(I also have the feeling that they will not be paying for hearing
tests so that will be the next fight.)
 
Thanks,
Bill