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Affording hearing aids is challenging if you’re an older American on Medicare.
That’s because Original Medicare — which covers a majority of beneficiaries — doesn’t cover hearing aids, fittings or hearing exams.
That’s right — not a dime. And hearing aids are expensive: The average cost for one pair ranges from $3,000 to $6,000.
About 1 in 3 people between the ages of 65 and 74 have hearing loss, and nearly half of people 75 and older have difficulty hearing, according to the National Institute on Aging.
For now, older adults are mostly on the hook when it comes to paying for hearing care.
In this guide, we break down what hearing aid coverage is available to both Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage beneficiaries.
We also explore other ways to save money on hearing care, including Medicaid and nonprofit programs.
Does Medicare Cover Hearing Aids and Exams?
Original Medicare doesn’t cover hearing aids or exams for fitting hearing aids. Some Medicare Advantage plans have hearing aid coverage, but it varies by plan. Some other services are covered under both, however.
Original Medicare
In some situations, Original Medicare coverage may pay for cochlear implants or hearing tests in emergency situations.
Original Medicare covers 80% of the cost of cochlear implants for those who qualify. Cochlear implants are considered medically necessary for the treatment of a severe to profound hearing impairment.
Medicare Part B will generally cover a cochlear implant if you recognize sentences while wearing your hearing aids only 40% of the time or less.
Medicare Part B will also cover 80% of a diagnostic hearing test and balance exams, but only if it is ordered by your doctor or health care provider during an emergency.
For example, a doctor may run these tests to diagnose the cause of dizziness or vertigo.
Medicare Advantage
Original…
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