The Plan pays benefits for hearing aids required for the correction of a hearing impairment (a reduction in the ability to perceive sound that may range from slight to complete deafness). Hearing aids are electronic amplifying devices designed to bring sound more effectively into the ear. A hearing aid consists of a microphone, amplifier and receiver.

Benefits are available for a hearing aid that is purchased as a result of a written recommendation by a physician, and are provided for the hearing aid and for charges for associated fitting and testing.

If more than one type of hearing aid can meet your functional needs, benefits are available only for the hearing aid that meets the minimum specifications for your needs. If you purchase a hearing aid that exceeds these minimum specifications, the Plan will pay only the amount that the Plan would have paid for the hearing aid that meets the minimum specifications, and you will be responsible for paying any difference in cost.

Benefits do not include bone anchored hearing aids. Bone anchored hearing aids are a covered health service for which benefits are available under the applicable medical/surgical covered health services categories in this "Medical Benefits" section, and only for covered members who have either of the following:

Benefits are limited to a single purchase (including repair/replacement) every three calendar years.