Are Hearing Aids Covered by Insurance?

Hearing aids are most common treatment for individuals who are experiencing loss of hearing. And while these devices are the considered to be the most effective, it may also be an expensive one, especially if your condition is severe or if alternative options are not working. If you’re wondering if getting a hearing aid will be covered by insurance, then be sure to read this article so you would know what to expect.

Private Health Insurance

This kind of insurance is usually one of the benefits that are provided by an employer to its employees. This kind of subscription may also be individually purchased and some companies are able to cover hearing aids purchases.

It is important to be aware though that every health insurance company have different types of policies and so the amount and extent of the coverage may vary. It’s possible that specific plan will be able to provide complete coverage and other plans, usually the more less expensive ones, are one able to cover just a percentage of the charge.

It’s also possible that hearing aids coverage are only limited to specific types or would have a condition that the device is directly purchased from a particular provider that they support. Some manufacturers have partnerships with these health insurance companies and they might offer bundled deals that you might want to consider checking out.

Before purchasing a hearing aid, it is important to check with the insurance provider to understand what is covered under the policy. This may include the following:

• Number of units
• Replacement frequency
• Co-payments
• Deductibles

Medicare

This federal health insurance program provides coverage for individuals who are aged 65 years or higher. It is also offered for people with certain disabilities. Take note that specific medical equipment and supplies, such as types of durable medical equipment, are covered but it usually does not cover hearing aids.

With that being said, it might be worth knowing about the policies of their Medicare Advantage plans as some of them may have additional benefits that could possibly cover hearing aids costs. These types of plans are provided by private insurance companies and their difference from the basic Medicare programs is that they have extra coverages that are far more beneficial.

Medicaid

Also a federal health insurance program, this one is made for individuals who are under the low income bracket. Take note that every state has a different coverage policy and that specific states offer support coverage for hearing aids. They may offer coverage for hearing aid but in general, this is more limited in comparison with the coverage that is being offered by a private health insurance.

Veterans Administration or Workers’ Compensation

Veterans experiencing hearing loss or tinnitus as a result of to their service to the government may be eligible to get a coverage from the Veterans Administration or VA. Same as the VA, employees that have developed hearing loss because of their exposure to noise due to work may also be able to avail coverage for hearing aids via the Workers’ Compensation.

The Bottom Line?

Using a hearing aid can greatly improve your hearing and purchasing one can be costly, especially if you’re experiencing severe loss of hearing or considering the more expensive brands. And while this would possibly require a significant amount to own a device, it’s important for you to know that there are several sources of insurance coverage that could help you lessen the costs.

Here's the thing...

You need to be aware of the policies and programs that they offer so that you’ll know the extent of their coverages. It’s essential to do your own research in order to know your options and the associated costs such as the type of hearing aids, deductibles, co-payments, and the like.

In addition...

You might also want to get an audiologist or hearing specialist consultation so they can provide professional advice or recommendation on choosing the right hearing aid brand or type that is matched to your condition and needs. Best of all, they might even be able to give you some help about the different coverages that could possibly work for you.