Does Medicare cover hearing aids? An audiologist answers

Hearing loss is a common health concern for seniors.  One in three people between the ages of 65 and 74 has hearing loss and nearly half of those older than 75 have difficulty hearing.¹  Hearing aid technology has developed rapidly in the last decade, today’s hearing aids are sleek, discreet, blue tooth enabled and easy to use.  However, along with these advances in technology comes a bigger price tag as well.  In the United States, people over the age of 65 have the opportunity to participate in Medicare, a federal health insurance program which covers hospital stays (Part A,) doctors’ visits, outpatient care (Part B,) and prescription drugs (Part D.)  Medicare does not cover hearing aids, or any services related to hearing aids.  Some Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C) offer additional benefits that Original Medicare does not cover.²

Medicare Advantage Plans, Part C or “MA Plans” are an all-in-one alternative to Original Medicare.  They are offered by private health insurance companies approved by Medicare.  Seniors can shop and compare plans and choose a plan that best meets their medical and health needs as well as their budgets. Some plans charge a monthly premium and may have an annual deductible and/or copayment.   Many MA plans now offer coverage for hearing aids.  These plans can vary from a small discount to full coverage for hearing aids.  Seniors with hearing loss should carefully investigate their Medicare Advantage options to find a plan that will help offset the cost of hearing aids.  There are specific times each year when seniors can enroll in a Medicare Advantage Plan.³ The best way to enroll is to call 1-800-MEDICARE for more information. 

The cost of hearing aids can be a deterrent for those with hearing loss.  While 30 to 50 percent of seniors could benefit from hearing aids, only 1 out of 5 are wearing them.⁴  While Medicare does not currently cover hearing aids, many Medicare Advantage Plans offer hearing aid coverage in their benefit options.  Hearing loss not only impacts communication, but it negatively affects balance, cognitive function, memory, and mental health.  Hearing aids are the most effective treatment for most hearing loss affecting seniors.

Most seniors would benefit from including hearing aid coverage when considering which Medicare Advantage Plan to choose. 

Here are some questions to ask when considering a Medicare Advantage plans:

1. Are hearing aids a covered benefit?
2. How much of the cost of hearing aids does the plan cover?
3. Is there a deductible or copay?
4. Are hearing evaluations and follow up visits included?

Untreated hearing loss can have serious consequences for seniors’ mental and physical health.  Medicare Advantage plans offer one option to reduce hearing aid costs and improve access to the benefits of hearing aids.