Does Medicare Cover Hearing Aids?

Hearing loss affects around one-third of adults between ages 65 and 74. If you're having trouble hearing, you may wonder if Medicare helps pay for hearing tests and hearing aids.

Hearing care, including routine hearing tests and hearing aids, is not covered by Original Medicare. Many Medicare Advantage plans include coverage for hearing services and may help pay for hearing tests and hearing aids. 

Since your ability to hear well affects so many aspects of daily life, it's important to understand what Medicare does and doesn't cover.

Key Takeaways:

• Original Medicare and Medicare Supplement plans do not pay for hearing aids.

• Some Medicare Advantage plans will pay for some of the costs of hearing aids.

• Different Medicare Advantage plans have different rules and coverage options for hearing aids, so it’s important to understand how your plan works.

• Over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids became available after approval from the FDA in 2022.

• OTC hearing aids are best for those with mild-to-moderate hearing loss.

Does Original Medicare pay for hearing aids?

Original Medicare and most private insurance plans won't help with coverage of hearing aids. While Medicare Part B covers many outpatient medical services and equipment, it specifically excludes both hearing aids and the exams needed to determine need.

If you have a Medicare Supplement plan (Medigap), it also won't cover hearing aid costs. These plans don’t cover additional services and equipment, but rather reduce your out-of-pocket costs for Medicare-covered care. 

The government has considered adding hearing aid coverage to Medicare, but no progress has been made.

Does Medicare pay for any hearing services, such as hearing exams?

While routine hearing care isn't covered by Original Medicare, some diagnostic hearing and balance exams may be covered as treatment for medical conditions—if deemed necessary by a doctor.

Medicare typically covers hearing exams when they're needed to diagnose conditions such as:

• Sudden hearing loss in one or both ears

• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)

• Vertigo or balance problems

• Inner ear disorders

• Problems that might require cochlear implants

Important things to know about Medicare coverage for hearing services:

• For Medicare to cover any diagnostic hearing exam, your doctor must order it as medically necessary.

• You'll need to pay your Medicare Part B deductible before Medicare will begin paying for its share of covered services. Once your deductible is met, you’ll owe either copayments or coinsurance.

• Even if Medicare-covered tests show you need hearing aids, you will need to cover the full cost of the hearing aids yourself if you’re on Original Medicare. However, Medicare Part B does cover cochlear implants and related surgery when they're medically necessary.

• If you need medications for ear-related conditions, these may be covered under Medicare Part D prescription drug plans.

Are there any Medicare plans that include hearing aid coverage?

Many Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans include coverage for hearing services that Original Medicare doesn't cover. These plans, offered through private insurance companies like Aetna, United Healthcare, and Humana, often provide benefits for routine hearing tests and hearing aids.

Medicare Advantage plan hearing aid coverage varies depending on the specific plan you enroll in. Some plans cover both prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids, while others may limit coverage to certain types or brands. Many insurance companies offer multiple Medicare Advantage plans with different levels of hearing coverage. 

If you are concerned about hearing coverage, speak with one of our licensed Medicare Advisors. They can help you understand your healthcare options and find the best Medicare coverage for your needs. 

What about Medicaid?

Because Medicaid is run by individual states, coverage for hearing services varies. Eligibility for Medicaid hearing aid coverage often depends on the severity of your hearing loss and typically requires prior authorization.

How else can you cover the cost of hearing aids?

If you're experiencing hearing loss and can't afford audiology services, there are several options for help.

Consider OTC hearing aids

Over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids might be a good choice if you have mild to moderate hearing loss. These FDA-approved hearing devices work by using a microphone and speaker to amplify sounds entering your ear.

OTC hearing aids are generally much more affordable than prescription hearing aids. While prices vary, they typically cost between $100 and $1,000 per pair. When shopping for these devices, make sure the label specifically says "over-the-counter hearing aid.” This statement confirms a device is an FDA-approved hearing aid and not just a sound amplifier.

Seek help from a charity

Many charities and organizations offer hearing health services and hearing aids for free or reduced prices.

• The VA provides hearing aids and related services to eligible veterans.

• The Hearing Loss Association of America offers financial assistance programs.

• Various national charities provide free or low-cost hearing aids to people who qualify for support.

• Many state health departments also run hearing aid assistance programs.

To find help in your area, contact these organizations directly or ask your healthcare provider about local resources for hearing aid assistance.

Consider used hearing aids

Used hearing aids are a more affordable option. If you're thinking about buying used hearing aids, keep these two important things in mind:

1. The devices must be clearly labeled as 'used' to meet FDA requirements.

2. You should consult with an audiologist to make sure used hearing aids will work for your needs.

Be cautious about purchasing from private sellers on sites like eBay or Craigslist. While these options might cost less, they often come without warranties and may not function properly. Instead, consider working with established vendors who specialize in refurbished hearing aids.

Where can you buy hearing aids?

You can get hearing aids from several sources, depending on whether you need prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) devices.

Prescription hearing aids are available from:

• Licensed hearing aid dispensers

• Audiologists

• Ear, nose, and throat doctors

OTC hearing aids can be purchased at:

• Major retailers like Costco and Best Buy

• Online marketplaces

• Directly from manufacturers

If you have a Medicare Advantage plan that covers hearing aids, check your plan documents before you buy. Your insurance may require you to use specific providers or vendors.

Before buying hearing aids from any source, get a hearing test to understand your needs. Make sure to review the warranty and return policy, and ask about any included services like fittings or adjustments.

If you have any questions about what your Medicare insurance covers or how you can get coverage that better fits your health and financial needs, we’re here to help! Give us a call at (855) 900-2427 or schedule a time to speak with one of our licensed Medicare Advisors to get help understanding your healthcare options.