Updated FEP BCBS Policy Expected April 1, 2024

As a part of the Academy’s ongoing dialogue with Blue Cross Blue Shield Association (BCBSA) representatives regarding the recent changes to Federal Employee Program (FEP) hearing aid coverage criteria, we have learned that an updated policy is expected to be released with an effective date of April 1, 2024.

Typically, FEP coverage guidelines are reviewed on an annual basis. However, BCBSA decided to “complete an office cycle review and update of the policy” and “several changes were made to the policy that will become effective on April 1, 2024.”  

The updated policy should be available for public viewing on April 5 here. BCBSA representatives have encouraged the Academy to review the updated policy when released and “forward any additional input or comments for review.”

The Academy has remained in contact with the original BCBSA representatives that we spoke with on our initial call to discuss the coverage criteria changes that went into effect on January 1, 2024. The Academy has passed along multiple member reports of coverage denials related to strict interpretation of the 40 dB criteria and confusion regarding FDA database resources.  

The BCBSA representatives have been very responsive and requested the contact information of the provider. We have learned that BCBSA has reached out to these audiologists in an effort to resolve these issues. BCBSA has developed an FAQ for plans to provide additional clarity about this change in policy. The Academy requested a copy of the FAQ, but was told that the document was proprietary.