Sometimes insurance will cover hearing aids. It doesn't hurt to ask.
Many people are often surprised to find out that hearing aids are very rarely covered by insurance. In some cases, insurance will provide a limited amount of coverage, i.e., $500 per aid, but overall, most patients will have to pay out of pocket.
Unfortunately, the Medicare program does not cover hearing aids because they are statutorily excluded from coverage. However, some Medicare Advantage Plans, health plan options that are available through Medicare, may have hearing aid coverage. To determine if your Medicare Advantage Plan or other health insurance covers hearing aids, check with your individual plan. Most plans have a toll-free number for member services listed on the insurance card.
When you contact your health plan regarding hearing aids, be sure to ask the following questions:
- What is the health plan benefit for hearing aids?
- Do I have to use specific provider?
- If the health plan has a benefit, i.e. $500, do I have to pay the provider and get reimbursed, or can the provider bill the health plan directly?
- Is the benefit limited to specific hearing aid models or technology?
For example, one large health plan specifies that it covers “routine” hearing aids. Ask your plan to specifically define such terms.
- Are there any criteria or stipulations for coverage?
Some health plans may have audiologic criteria, meaning your hearing loss must be a certain degree in order to receive their benefit. The issue of hearing aid insurance is heating up, and several states are responding with bills to require coverage of some hearing aids for some people. It’s a long way from universal coverage, but it’s a start.
