How many times does a family member tell you that it’s hard for you to hear? If your answer is occasionally, then it’s probably time to get your hearing examined even if you don’t notice problems.
There are many causes to hearing loss, it can be an illness, injury, an inherited condition. Medicare can cover you for hearing aids in certain situations where you may be eligible.
Will Original Medicare cover hearing aids?
Typically, most Medicare Supplement (or Medigap) Plans and Original Medicare do not cover:
- Routine hearing exams
- Fittings for hearing aids
- Hearing aids
So, you could pay the full amount for these services above without insurance.
However, if you need a diagnostic hearing test, the Medicare Part B will cover it. Your doctor will order this test if you have hearing loss due to an injury or illness. For this diagnostic hearing test, you will pay the Medicare Part B deductible and 20% of the Medicare-approved amount.
- If your doctor is not partaking in the Medicare program and he or she orders a hearing test for you. Then you may have to pay the full 100% for the test. So make sure that your doctor is partaking in the Medicare program.
- Medicare will not cover the hearing aid regardless of the end result of the hearing diagnostic test
What can Medicare Advantage Plans do for hearing aids?
Medicare Advantage plans (Medicare Part C) can have added benefits that are not generally included in Original Medicare (Part A and Part B). These benefits include hearing aids and routine hearing exam coverage. Compare each Medicare Advantage plan to one another because each plan is different. Find one that will check all of your specific medical needs. Use our Medicare Advantage plan comparison tool to see if any Medicare Advantage plans in your area that will cover hearing aids and exams.
Certain Medicare Advantage plans or Medicaid can cover hearing exams. If you do have hearing coverage, then follow your doctor’s directions for receiving an exam. Your doctor may assign you to a specialist if he or she does not do hearing exams.
How to purchase a hearing aid
Hearing aids costs vary from hundreds to thousands of dollars. Go over your plan carefully if you have a plan that covers hearing aids like a Medicare Advantage plan. Be aware that the plan may only cover you if you purchase your hearing aid through a certain process or supplier. Having no hearing aid coverage means you can buy hearing aids through any place you want although you may have to pay the full amount.
Your state may have benefits related to hearing, like coverage for hearing aids and exams. You may qualify for these benefits if you are a resident. If you want more information on hearing aid coverage for your state, then check The Hearing Loss Association Of America website.