Are you considering getting hearing aids but wondering if insurance can cover them? Many people ignore hearing loss as a serious problem due to the high expense of treatment. Additionally, more than 28 million individuals in the USA, particularly those in their later years, are thought to benefit from using hearing aids. But many of us choose not to take action because we are on a tight budget.
However, you might be able to save money on brand-new hearing aids if certain insurance coverage and features are available. This might include the more recent and readily available over-the-counter (OTC) devices. This article will explain what hearing aids are all about and if insurance can cover them.
What Is a Hearing Aid
A hearing aid is a wearable gadget that amplifies sound to help those with different levels of hearing loss communicate and hear better in varied listening environments. Generally, it consists of a microphone, an amplifier, and a speaker. The microphone helps in the picking of sound waves, which are transferred into electrical impulses and transmitted to the amplifier.
In addition, the amplifier enhances the impulses before sending them to the ear through the speaker. Also, hearing aids have modern components that provide extra functions like tinnitus control, directed hearing, and noise reduction for a more customized hearing experience. Moreover, the price of hearing aids usually increases due to their advanced features.
Does Insurance Cover Hearing Aids
Generally, insurance companies cannot cover hearing aids. However, there are exceptions, depending on various individual circumstances. Your location is one of these. Also, insurance companies are now required by law in five states to cover adult users’ hearing aids:
- New Hampshire.
- Rhode Island.
- Arkansas.
- Connecticut.
- Illinois.
Moreover, employers who choose to opt-out (as is the situation in Arkansas) and individual and group health insurance policies may be subject to this obligation. However, contact your provider immediately if you have any inquiries concerning the specifics or restrictions around your state’s coverage for hearing aids.
Who Can Cover Hearing Aids
Many private insurance companies are considered optional when it comes to covering hearing aids, but they are not covered by regular health care plans. Also, there are situations when you will have to pay more for hearing coverage, similar to policies that charge more for vision or dental services. Moreover, let’s review the hearing aids provided by a few of the most popular health insurance companies. Furthermore, remember that you could have to pay an annual deductible and/or copay, depending on your plan.
Aetna
Certain policies may provide financial assistance or reimbursement for over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids that an audiologist determines are medically essential, but most Aetna policies do not cover or exclude these aids.
Blue Cross Blue Shield
States differ in what they cover, although some plans could include hearing aids. However, the Federal Employee Program (FEP) does provide a $2,500 annual stipend that can be used for the purchase of hearing aids and related equipment. Through the Blue365 Discount Program, FEP members can also get lower costs for hearing aids.
Cigna
Hearing aids are included in several Cigna health insurance policies. Moreover, you can find out what benefits your policy offers for hearing by contacting your insurance company.
Humana
Humana Extend is a Medicare Advantage plan that includes vision, dental, and hearing services. It is also available in several Humana Medicare Advantage plans. Additionally, you can review options on the Humana website or contact your health insurance provider for more information.
United Healthcare
United Healthcare is considered one of the top insurance providers for hearing aids. This policy usually covers the whole cost of significant prescription-grade hearing aids. Moreover, a qualified audiologist’s hearing exam is necessary.
What If Your Insurance Plan Doesn’t Offer Hearing Aids
Most plans and insurance providers differ greatly in their hearing aid coverage. Also, there are actions you may take if your present insurance plan does not include a hearing benefit and you are a Medicare recipient or eligible for Medicare.
Here are some of the steps to take if you want to get hearing aids without insurance:
- Start by selecting Health and Drug Plans at the top of the Medicare.gov page.
- Select the option Find Health and Drug Plans from the drop-down menu.
- Enter your ZIP code to see the Medicare Advantage plans available in your area. Every benefit that is covered by a plan will have a green checkmark next to it on the list.
By using the internet resources for funding and insurance for these devices, you can get assistance with the cost of purchasing hearing aids. For those seeking financial counsel and information on funding options for hearing aids, the best resource is a local hearing care expert.