Medicare Hearing Benefits

What to Do if You're on Medicare and Need a Hearing Aid

Original Medicare (Medicare Part A and Medicare Part B) do not cover routine hearing exams or hearing aids. If you lost your hearing as a result of an injury or illness, Medicare may cover a diagnostic test to determine hearing loss. In this case you would pay 20% of the amount approved by Medicare (subject to the Medicare Part B deductible). If your doctor does not accept Medicare assignments, you could also pay any amount charged above the amount approved by Medicare for the hearing exam. Still, hearing aids are not covered by Original Medicare.

Most Medicare Supplement (or "Medigap") plans do not cover hearing aids.

Original Medicare is not able to cover hearing aids because of the expense. Some hearing aids can cost thousands of dollars. And, with over 4 million people who claim to have a hearing loss and who are eligible for Medicare, it could be an expense worthy of raising rates for all Medicare recipients.

There are a few ways you may be covered for hearing aids if you are eligible for Medicare. Some Medicare Advantage (Medicare Part C) plans cover hearing exams and hearing aids. Also, many states offer hearing benefits, including hearing aids, through Medicaid or other programs for qualified residents. The Hearing Loss Association of America, at www.hearingloss.org, includes a state-by-state list of such programs and phone numbers to call.

Scheduling Your Hearing Exam

With Original Medicare (Medicare Part A and Medicare Part B), you can expect to pay 100% of the cost. If you have the financial resources and are willing to pay for it, call your doctor or hearing loss specialist and schedule a hearing exam.

If you have a Medicare Advantage (Medicare Part C) plan or other private health insurance, follow your health plan's rules for scheduling hearing appointments. For example, do not call a hearing specialist directly if your Medicare Advantage plan requires you to go through your doctor first. If your Medicare Advantage or other health plan uses a network of physicians, or if it offers hearing exams and hearing aid discounts through a program, be sure to go to a hearing specialist who participates in the Medicare Advantage (or other health) plan for hearing aids, products and services.

With a state Medicaid or other hearing program, follow the program's instructions for accessing your hearing benefits or buying a hearing aid.

Shopping for Hearing Aids

If your doctor confirms that you need a hearing aid, he or she may recommend a specific hearing aid, possibly through a specific vendor. But how much you pay and where you can buy may depend on who is paying for the hearing aid. Remember that Medicare does not cover hearing aids while some Medicare Advantage plans do cover hearing aids and hearing exams.

If you're paying for the hearing aid, you can search the Internet for "hearing aids" to find a wealth of products from many hearing aid companies. See who offers a hearing aid style that best fits your needs or what your doctor recommends.

If you have a Medicare Advantage plan or Medicaid program that covers all or part of the cost for a hearing aid, you may be restricted to buy through approved companies. Check with your health plan and follow their instructions.

Medicare has neither reviewed nor endorsed this information.