Section 743A.140 - Bilateral cochlear implants(1) A health benefit plan, as defined in ORS 743B.005, shall reimburse the cost of: (a) Bilateral cochlear implants if medically appropriate for the treatment of hearing loss; and(b) The fitting, programming and reprogramming of bilateral or unilateral cochlear implants or other assistive listening devices performed by licensed audiologists.(2) For purposes of ORS 746.230, a reasonable investigation of a claim for bilateral cochlear implants must include a request to the treating surgeon for a written recommendation based on peer-reviewed medical literature and for the medical findings that support the recommendation.(3) A health benefit plan shall reimburse the cost of repair and replacement parts for a cochlear implant if the repair or parts are not covered by a warranty and are necessary for the device to be functional for the user.(4) A health benefit plan shall reimburse the costs described in this section when prescribed by a licensed health professional even if over-the-counter items and services are available without a prescription.(5) An adverse determination on a claim for coverage under this section must include a prominent notice to the enrollee of the enrollee's rights to file grievances and request appeals and reviews under ORS 743B.250 and must provide a toll-free telephone number or chat line for enrollees to seek assistance in contesting the denial of or limitation on coverage.(6) Coverage under this section may not be subject to a deductible, except as provided in ORS 742.008.(7) The provisions of this section are exempt from ORS 743A.001.Amended by 2023 Ch. 424,§ 3, eff. 1/1/2024.Amended by 2018 Ch. 9, § 1, eff. 1/1/2019.743A.140 was added to and made a part of the Insurance Code by legislative action but was not added to ORS chapter 743A or any series therein. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.