MedicaidCoverageMedium impact
Arizona Medicaid: New coverage details for cochlear implants and speech therapy
UnitedHealthcare·AZ · ENT (Ear, Nose & Throat), Physical Therapy·State news
Effective date
Oct 1, 2025
We identified it
Jan 12, 2026
Summary
Arizona Medicaid now covers cochlear implants and outpatient speech therapy for UnitedHealthcare Community Plan members ages 21 and older when medically necessary, effective October 1, 2025. This removes long-standing exclusions and includes rehabilitation services to help patients adjust to cochlear implant technology.
Action Required
Immediately: Billing team must review orthotic/prosthetic device policies and speech therapy policies for prior authorization requirements. Update billing system to include cochlear implant and speech therapy services as covered for Arizona Medicaid members 21+ when medically necessary. Ensure prior authorization processes are in place per AHCCCS requirements before billing these services.