Genetic testing for hereditary hearing loss genes (GJB2, GJB6, and other hereditary hearing loss–related genes) in individuals with suspected hearing loss to confirm the diagnosis of hereditary hearing loss (see Policy Guidelines section) may be considered medically necessary.
Preconception genetic testing (carrier testing) for hereditary hearing loss genes (GJB2, GJB6, and other hereditary hearing loss-related genes) in parents may be considered medically necessary when at least one of the following conditions has been met:
Offspring with hereditary hearing loss OR
One or both parents with suspected hereditary hearing loss OR
First- or second-degree relative affected with hereditary hearing loss OR
First-degree relative with offspring who is affected with hereditary hearing loss.
Genetic testing for hereditary hearing loss genes is considered investigational for all other situations, including, but not limited to, testing individuals without hearing loss (except as addressed in related policies, eg, evidence review 4.02.05 [preimplantation genetic testing]).
