By Daniel Petkevich
Nov 9, 2022
Hearing loss is a common problem in the United States, especially as people get older. It can have a profound negative impact on a person's quality of life — leading to isolation, depression, and even dementia.
The technology in hearing aids has improved significantly. But over the years, the cost of these devices has skyrocketed — making them unaffordable for many Americans. People suffering from hearing loss can't get hearing aids because of the price.
If this applies to you or someone you know, you may wonder whether Medicare or some other program can help cover the cost.
Let's find out. We'll look at a few different Medicare plans and discuss how you can get coverage.
In 2023, hearing aids will cost between $2000 and $7000 per pair. The exact price depends on their type, model, and features.
Hearing aids come in both basic and advanced options.
The most high-tech ones use Bluetooth connectivity and artificial intelligence (these cost the most).
Hearing aid costs are often bundled. Bundles typically include hearing aids, a consultation, an initial fitting, and follow-up appointments. They also sometimes include a warranty, routine cleanings, and batteries.
If your plan doesn't cover hearing aids, you can reduce the initial cost by unbundling these services. In other words, separate the cost of the hearing aid from the associated services, and limit the number of follow-ups.
But first, let's see whether your insurance plan can help cover these costs.
No. Medicare doesn't cover hearing aids or exams for fitting hearing aids.
Individuals enrolled in Original Medicare must pay 100% of the costs for hearing aids and exams.
That said, Medicare does cover hearing tests under certain conditions.
Medicare Part B covers 80% of diagnostic hearing or balance exams.
You still need to pay a portion of the costs, which include:
20% of the Medicare-approved costs
Your annual Part B deductible ($226 in 2023)
A hospital copayment (if the tests are conducted in a hospital outpatient setting)
Many Medicare Advantage Plans (or Medicare Part C) provide some coverage for hearing aids and hearing exams.
If you're enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, your plan might cover the following costs:
Hearing aids
An earmold
Hearing aid batteries
Hearing test
Audiologist visits for fitting and adjustments
While many Medicare Advantage plans cover hearing aids, some provide coverage in only a few states, and others offer no coverage at all.
Your exact coverage depends on your plan and insurance provider. So, you might still need to pay a share of the costs. You should check with your provider to confirm what your plan covers.
No. Medigap Plans don't cover hearing aids.
Medigap plans are an extension of the Original Medicare and help fill the gaps left by Original Medicare. Since Original Medicare doesn't cover hearing aids, Medigap plans don't either.
However, Medigap plans can lower out-of-pocket expenses for doctor-recommended diagnostic hearing or balance exams. Original Medicare (or Medicare Part B) covers 80% of these tests. So, depending on your plan, you might pay under 20% or nothing at all.
If you're not enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan that covers hearing aids, you can still get help in the following ways:
Medicaid programs might cover hearing aids and exams if:
You qualify based on your income
It's available in the state in which you reside
Retiree health insurance plans may cover hearing tests and hearing aids to some extent.
If you're a federal retiree under the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP) or Federal Flexible Spending Account Program (FSAFEDS), you might get coverage if your plan covers hearing aids.
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) covers veterans who've worked alongside audiologists to assess their need for hearing aids.
This program provides hearing aids, repairs, and future batteries at no charge —as long as individuals maintain VA eligibility.
You can also look for discounts on hearing aids. Shop around, join a discount program, or look for membership discounts.
Ask your healthcare provider for resources and information.
Various programs — Kiwanis Club or Lions Club — offer financial aid to individuals seeking hearing assistance. Check with your hearing specialist about options in your area.
As of October 2022, you can purchase over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids in stores or online —without visiting a hearing health professional. They cost between $200 and $3000 and are meant for adults with mild or moderate hearing loss.
It's unknown whether Medicare Advantage plans will cover OTC hearing aids.
Some Medicare Advantage plans may include them in their OTC supplemental benefits — which provide coverage for drugs and other drugstore items. Talk to your insurance provider to verify your plan's OTC coverage.
There are a few historical reasons why Medicare doesn't cover hearing aids:
Hearing aids used to be less expensive
When the Medicare Act of 1965 established Medicare — a health insurance program designed for seniors — hearing aids and exams were relatively affordable.
Age-related hearing loss wasn't as common
As the average lifespan has increased over the years, people are living long enough to develop hearing problems.
We didn't understand the social-emotional impact of hearing loss
Not many people realized that it could lead to depression and social isolation, so treating it wasn't a priority.
The H.R.5376 Build Back Better Act could extend Medicare coverage to hearing aids and treatment.
This bill was presented to Congress in November 2021. The House approved it, and now the Senate is reviewing it.
If the bill passes, Medicare will cover hearing aids in the future.
While Original Medicare and Medigap don't cover hearing aids, some Medicare Advantage Plans do.
If your current plan doesn't cover the hearing services you need, you may be able to switch. You can also look for discounts, ask your healthcare provider about financial aid opportunities, and consider using OTC products.
If comparing different plans overwhelms you, Fair Square Medicare is here to help. Call us at 1-888-376-2028.
What Is the Medicare Birthday Rule in Nevada?
Mar 28, 2023
Does Medicare Cover Ozempic?
Mar 28, 2023
Can Medicare Advantage Plans Deny Coverage for Pre-Existing Conditions?
Mar 28, 2023
What People Don't Realize About Medicare
Mar 27, 2023
Medicare Advantage Plans for Disabled People Under 65
Mar 24, 2023
Medicare Supplement Plans for Low-Income Seniors
Mar 23, 2023
Medicare Savings Programs in Kansas
Mar 22, 2023
How Much Does a Medicare Coach Cost?
Mar 20, 2023
20 Questions to Ask Your Medicare Agent
Mar 17, 2023
14 Best Ways for Seniors to Stay Active in Washington, D.C.
Mar 11, 2023
14 Best Ways for Seniors to Stay Active in Nashville
Mar 10, 2023
14 Best Ways for Seniors to Stay Active in Seattle
Mar 10, 2023
15 Best Ways for Seniors to Stay Active in Denver
Mar 9, 2023
13 Best Ways for Seniors to Stay Active in Indianapolis
Mar 9, 2023
14 Best Ways to Stay Active in Charlotte
Mar 9, 2023
13 Best Ways for Seniors to Stay Active in Columbus
Mar 8, 2023
13 Best Ways for Seniors to Stay Active in Philadelphia
Mar 7, 2023
13 Best Ways for Seniors to Stay Active in Phoenix
Mar 6, 2023
Virgil Insurance Agency, LLC (DBA Fair Square Medicare) and www.fairsquaremedicare.com are privately owned and operated by Help Button Inc. Medicare supplement insurance plans are not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program. This is a solicitation of insurance. A licensed agent/producer may contact you. Medicare Supplement insurance is available to those age 65 and older enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B and, in some states, to those under age 65 eligible for Medicare due to disability or End-Stage Renal disease. Virgil Insurance Agency is a licensed and certified representative of Medicare Advantage HMO, HMO SNP, PPO, PPO SNP and PFFS organizations and stand-alone PDP prescription drug plans. Each of the organizations we represent has a Medicare contract. Enrollment in any plan depends on contract renewal. The plans we represent do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. Plan availability varies by region and state. For a complete list of available plans please contact 1-800-MEDICARE (TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048), 24 hours a day/7 days a week or consult www.medicare.gov. © 2022 Help Button Inc
We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.
MULTIPLAN_FairSquareMedicare_01062022_M