The class action against the Kaiser Foundation Health Plan of Washington arising out of its categorical exclusion of all hearing loss treatment except for cochlear implants has been settled. Kaiser will pay $3,000,000 to a settlement fund to reimburse class members for uncovered expenses for hearing aids and associated services incurred from October 30, 2014, through December 31, 2023.
The original plaintiffs alleged that Kaiser violated the Affordable Care Act’s anti-discrimination statute, 42 U.S.C. § 18116, and Washington’s health carrier anti-discrimination statute, RCW 48.43.0128, by excluding coverage of medically necessary hearing aids and associated treatment. Learn more from Kphearingaidsettlement.com.
Recent Posts
Founders’ Day
The 32 audiologists gathered in Houston, Texas, in 1988 to discuss the formation of a national association of audiologists. On January 30, 1988, 32 audiologists met…
House Minibus Advances with Mixed Outcomes for EHDI
Last week, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a fiscal year (FY) 2026 minibus appropriations package that includes the Labor, Health and Human Services, and…
State Policy Advocate Network Kicks Off 2026
The State Policy Advocate Network (SPAN) will hold its first meeting of 2026 on January 28 from 8:00–9:00 pm ET. This opening meeting of the…


