Hearing insurance is vital to maintaining good hearing health, especially for those who need a boost when it comes to securing hearing care or hearing aids. However, no two insurance coverage policies are the same – which is frustrating, to say the least!
Medicare can help cover the cost in some cases. If you’re reading this and you’re struggling with hearing loss in Texas, we’re here to provide a comprehensive overview of Medicare’s current perspective on hearing aid coverage, and what options are available to you.
A Brief Overview of Medicare’s Current Policy
Medicare is the federal insurance program for people 65 and older, as well as some younger individuals with disabilities, that covers most – but not all – healthcare costs. When it comes to hearing aids, Medicare Parts A and B, often referred to as “Original Medicare,” does not cover the cost of hearing aids or hearing assessments.
However, there’s a silver lining – Medicare Part C, or the Medicare Advantage Plans. These plans, offered by private companies approved by Medicare, often include dental, vision, and hearing aid coverage, in addition to the services Original Medicare already covers.
So don’t panic – there are options available! Coverage varies by plan, so it’s important to review the specifics of your Medicare Advantage Plan to understand what options you have.
What Additional Insurance Coverage Is Available to Me?
There are several options available for other forms of assistance:
- State Programs can offer assistance for individuals who need hearing aids but can’t afford them – eligibility requirements vary
- Non-Profit Organizations, like the Hearing Loss Association of America, Help America Hear, and Aid the Silent, can help provide financial assistance toward obtaining hearing aids
- Manufacturer Programs, such as the Starkey Hearing Foundation, offer financial assistance programs to help cover the cost of their devices
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) or Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) can also provide funds to pay for hearing aids and related expenses, if you have either of them already
If you’re not sure the way to go when it comes to your hearing aid journey, please know you don’t have to navigate it alone. For questions about insurance, we have an in-house insurance specialist with the know-how to navigate most major insurance company policies, as well as Medicare policies, to ensure you’re getting the benefits you’re entitled to.
How Audiological Services Can Help
Concerns about insurance coverage and budget often hold people back from looking into the hearing care that they need – sometimes, they’ll wait up to seven years before seeking help for a hearing loss challenge.
Our team is here to help with any questions and concerns you may have, or offer advice if you feel lost on where to start.
Feel free to request a callback and a hearing expert will call you back for a no-obligation discussion about you and your hearing. Don’t want to wait? Call us at (936) 632-2252.
