Does Medicare Cover Hearing Aids? What You Need to Know

Did you know that nearly 30 million US adults have some degree of hearing loss and could benefit from hearing aids? Hearing loss becomes increasingly common as we age, affecting one in three people between the ages of 65 and 74. 

But with hearing aids costing thousands of dollars per pair, many seniors wonder: What Medicare supplement covers hearing aids?

The answer could be clearer. While Original Medicare (Part A and B) does not cover hearing aids or fittings, some Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans offer hearing benefits. However, coverage varies widely between plans, and seniors often need clarification about their options.

We’ll cover what Medicare does and doesn’t cover for hearing aids and exams, the differences between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage, typical hearing care costs, and financial assistance options. We’ll also explain why treating hearing loss is crucial for overall health and wellness.

Does Medicare Cover Hearing Aids?

The simple answer is that it depends on your Medicare plan type.

Original Medicare, which includes Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance), does not cover hearing aids or the exams needed for fitting them. However, some Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans offer hearing benefits, including coverage for hearing aids.

Medicare Advantage is an alternative to Original Medicare offered by private insurance companies. These bundled plans include Part A and B coverage and often provide additional benefits like dental, vision, and hearing care.

So, in summary:

• Original Medicare (Part A & B) does not cover hearing aids.
• Some Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans cover hearing aids and fittings.
• Coverage under Medicare Advantage varies by plan.

It’s important to understand these distinctions when considering your Medicare options and hearing health needs.

Original Medicare Hearing Aid Coverage

Original Medicare, which consists of Part A and Part B, has relatively limited coverage for hearing care.

While Part B covers diagnostic hearing exams that are medically necessary to treat a specific illness or injury, it does not cover routine hearing tests, hearing aids, balance exams, or routine exams for fitting hearing aids. This means that if you suspect hearing loss and want to get your hearing checked or be fitted for hearing aids, Original Medicare will not cover the costs.

There are a few exceptions where Part B may cover hearing-related services:

• Cochlear implants: Part B covers the cost of implants and follow-up care for beneficiaries who meet certain qualifications.  
• Bone-anchored hearing aids (BAHAs): Part B may cover these surgically implanted devices for specific medical conditions.
• Diagnostic hearing tests: Part B covers these exams if your doctor orders them as part of treatment for a medical condition.

However, Original Medicare does not provide coverage for the hearing aids or fittings needed by most seniors with age-related hearing loss.

Medicare Advantage Hearing Aid Coverage

Medicare Advantage, also known as Part C, is a type of Medicare plan offered by private insurance companies. These plans bundle Original Medicare benefits with additional coverage, often including hearing, vision, and dental care.  

Many Medicare Advantage plans provide some coverage for hearing aids and exams, but the specifics vary widely. Here’s what you can generally expect:

• Copayment or allowance for hearing aids is sometimes limited to specific device models.
• Coverage for hearing exams, fittings, and maintenance, often with a copay.
• Limits on how often you can get new hearing aids (typically every few years).
• Possible network restrictions require you to use certain providers.

It’s important to carefully review the details of each plan’s hearing benefits when deciding on Medicare Advantage coverage. Consider:  

• What is the maximum coverage amount for hearing aids? Will it cover the devices you need?
• Are there any restrictions on what type or model of hearing aid is covered?
• How often can you get new devices?
• What costs will you be responsible for in terms of copays and coinsurance?  
• Are there any in-network provider requirements?

Hearing aid coverage can also vary by location, as plan options differ by location. Be sure to compare plans in your specific area to find the best fit for your needs and budget.

Costs of Hearing Aids & Exams

One of the biggest barriers to getting hearing aids is the high cost. On average, a pair of hearing aids costs $1,000 to $5,000, with top models featuring advanced technology costing even more. And that’s not including the additional costs of exams, fittings, and ongoing care.

Here’s a breakdown of what you might pay out-of-pocket for hearing care without insurance:

• Hearing exam: $150 – $225.
• Hearing aid fitting: $500 – $1500.
• Pair of hearing aids: $2000 – $7000+.
• Maintenance and repairs: $50 – $350 per visit.

Remember that hearing aids typically last 3-7 years before needing replacement. The costs of managing hearing loss can add up over time, especially for those with fixed incomes.

Medicare’s limited coverage—particularly the lack of hearing aid benefits under Original Medicare—leaves many seniors struggling to afford the hearing health care they need. But there are some alternative options worth exploring.

Alternative Financial Assistance Options

If your Medicare plan isn’t covering hearing aids, don’t lose hope. Some various other programs and resources may help you access affordable hearing care. 

For example:

• Medicaid: Depending on your income and assets, you may qualify for Medicaid, the government insurance program for low-income Americans. Medicaid hearing aid coverage varies by state. While some states don’t cover hearing aids for adults, others offer generous benefits with minimal copays. Check with your state Medicaid office to see if you qualify and what hearing benefits are available.
• Veterans Benefits: If you’re a military veteran, you may be able to get hearing aids at no cost through Veterans Affairs (VA). To qualify, you generally need to have a documented hearing loss connected to your military service. Talk to your VA doctor or audiologist to learn more.
• State & Local Programs:  Some states have special programs to help residents get hearing aids and assistive devices. For example, your state may have an assistive technology program that provides low-interest loans for hearing aids or vocational rehabilitation programs that help people who need hearing aids to maintain employment. Reach out to your local Department of Human Services or commission for the deaf and hard of hearing to find out what’s available in your area.
• Nonprofit Organizations: Numerous nonprofit groups are dedicated to helping people access hearing care. Some examples:
  • HLAA provides education and support for people with hearing loss, including a directory of financial assistance programs.
  • Sertoma helps people with hearing issues afford hearing aids through its SHARP program.
  • Hearing Charities of America offers financial assistance for hearing services to those in need.

• Discount & Refurbished Devices: Some online retailers and big-box stores offer deep discounts on hearing aids by selling refurbished models or cutting out the middleman. While the devices may not be the latest technology, they can be a more budget-friendly option. Just be cautious of extremely low-cost devices that seem too good to be true—they may be low-quality amplifiers rather than true hearing aids. Always check with your audiologist or doctor to ensure any device you purchase will work for your level of hearing loss.
• Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids: A new category of hearing aids that consumers can buy directly, without a prescription, is now over-the-counter, thanks to a recent FDA ruling. These OTC devices are intended for adults with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss. While they are less expensive than prescription hearing aids, remember that without professional guidance, you may run the risk of under- or over-amplifying your hearing. If you’re considering an OTC device, talk to your doctor and read the manufacturer’s return policy first.

Impact of Untreated Hearing Loss

It’s important not to put off treating hearing loss, even if you’re worried about the costs. Untreated hearing loss can lead to much more significant health problems down the line.

Studies have shown that people with hearing impairments were significantly associated with depression.

Hearing loss has been linked to other things as well. Research suggests that older adults with untreated hearing loss are more likely to develop dementia and experience accelerated cognitive decline than their peers without hearing loss. Nutrition Examination Survey found that hearing Impairment was associated with 32% higher odds of hospitalization.

There are economic costs, too. A study suggests that 14.6 million people in the USA live with untreated, disabling hearing loss, costing $133 billion each year. People with profound hearing loss were found, on average, to earn $12,000 less per year than those with mild hearing loss.

Yet despite these risks, only 16% of Americans aged 20–64 who require hearing aids use them. Cost is one of the most commonly reported barriers.

Improving access to hearing care—whether through expanded Medicare coverage or alternative assistance programs—could help more seniors treat their hearing loss promptly and avoid these negative health impacts. It could also reduce healthcare spending by preventing hospitalizations and slowing cognitive decline.

Your Next Steps for Healthy Hearing

Understanding how Medicare covers hearing aids and exploring alternative options is just the beginning of your journey to improved hearing. If you notice any hearing loss symptoms, it’s crucial to consult your healthcare provider. They can help determine whether there’s an underlying medical issue and refer you for a hearing test if necessary.

An important next step is scheduling an appointment with an audiologist or a qualified hearing care professional. They can conduct a thorough hearing exam and discuss various treatment options, helping you choose the hearing aids that fit your specific needs and budget. 

It’s important to do thorough research before purchasing over-the-counter hearing aids. This trial found that self-fitting over-the-counter hearing aids may provide an effective intervention for mild to moderate hearing loss.

Most importantly, don’t put off seeking care. Treating hearing loss promptly can help you stay socially engaged, mentally sharp, and physically well as you age.

While navigating Medicare coverage and hearing aid costs can feel overwhelming, know that you have options—and are not alone. You deserve to enjoy life to the fullest, and clear hearing is a big part of that.