While hearing loss remains one of the most common afflictions in the nation, it is also one condition usually not covered by health insurance companies. Very few states currently require insurance companies to cover hearing aids. They cover a large variety of medical needs, but not hearing aids.
A hearing exam, however, is normally covered by private insurance, but hearing aids are not. The exception is in New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Arkansas, where insurers must provide adult coverage for hearing aids.
Hearing aids are considered an optional medical device by most insurance companies, so they don’t offer coverage. However, considering the large number of people who have hearing loss (more than 50 percent of people over 75), this is an issue for many older adults.
Hearing aids are not typically covered by health insurance plans but check with your individual plan to learn if it covers hearing aids anyway. If you have coverage for hearing aids, it varies widely. Some health plans offer a fixed amount toward the purchase of aids, such as $500 or $1,000.
Benefits may be a flat amount per ear, or a fixed amount for the total purchase of hearing aids (whether one or two are purchased). Benefits are renewable after 3 to 5 years.
A health plan may provide an allowance in the form of a subtraction from the total purchase price if you purchase hearing aids from a contracted provider. This benefit is also renewable every few years.
Different Funds for Different Plans
The hearing aid coverage of each health plan is different and depends on where the plan is located. Currently, 23 states require health insurance providers to cover hearing aids for children. Five states cover hearing aids for adults as well.
Thankfully, many other states have legislation regarding hearing aid coverage pending, and there will be differences in state-mandated healthcare coverage for hearing aids.
A hearing care professional can often provide some guidance as you look for information about the coverage and how often you can make a claim and any other requirements. If your state mandates coverage, you’ll need to research how much and how often you can claim.
Hearing Loss and Insurance
Most people that suffer from hearing loss will make an insurance claim at some point in their lives.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, roughly 37 million people suffer from hearing loss. The high cost of hearing aids and the need for replacement every few years also make insurance companies less likely to make any money.
However, leaving your hearing problem untreated, or trying to treat it yourself, can often be more expensive than coughing up some money for a hearing aid. If left untreated, hearing loss can lead to many difficulties late in life, including an increased risk of dementia, Alzheimer’s, and a steep cognitive decline.
What To Do If Hearing Aids Aren’t Covered
You don’t want to waste time researching if you qualify for monetary assistance when considering hearing aid purchases. Below, we’ve compiled a list of the most common types of financial aid so you can quickly identify your options.
Consider all your options for finding the best fit for your hearing needs and budget:
- A third-party loan.
- Charitable donations from organizations or churches
- Help from your family.
- If you’re a veteran, check with benefits from the Veterans Administration
- Social Security- The Social Security trust fund may be able to help you if your hearing loss is affecting your capacity to work.
- Workmans Comp- If your position at work causes your hearing loss, you may qualify for workers’ compensation benefits to cover the price of hearing aids and other treatment.
If you or a loved one are suffering from hearing loss, it is vital to seek help immediately. Contacting your doctor or your audiologist can significantly impact your quality of life and your overall health down the road.
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