Does health insurance cover hearing aids?

Hearing aids typically aren't covered by traditional health insurance because many insurers don't consider them to be essential medical devices. However, in some cases, coverage may be available.

Are Hearing Aids Covered by Insurance?

Around 15% of the people in the U.S. have some form of hearing loss.¹ At the same time, hidden hearing loss often goes unnoticed, so a greater share of the population may have hearing loss than is reported.²

Hearing aids can help improve lost hearing. However, they can be expensive, so many wonder if their health insurance will help cover the cost. Below, we explore the benefits of hearing aids, whether insurance may help cover them, and ways to find affordable hearing aids.

3.5 Min Read

Table of Contents

What is a hearing aid?

A hearing aid is a small electronic device worn on the ear that amplifies incoming sound waves in order to help improve hearing and speech in someone with hearing loss. A hearing aid contains three parts:³

Microphone: Picks up sound.

Amplifier chip: Makes sound louder.

Receiver (speaker): Sends sound into the ear.

Hearing aids can be customized to suit different levels of hearing loss and fit comfortably on each individual's ears.

How can hearing aids affect overall health?

Good hearing isn't just crucial for convenience and quality of life. Improving your hearing can impact your health in several ways:

Cognitive function: Hearing loss can be linked to cognitive decline and related conditions, such as dementia. Even slight hearing loss can increase the risk of cognitive decline.⁴ Research suggests the the use of hearing aids may help slow cognitive decline in some individuals with hearing loss.⁵

Mental health: Hearing loss can make it harder to socialize or make one self-conscious, which can lead to declining mental health. Improving your hearing through hearing aids allow you to participate fully in social activities again, helping to improve your quality of life.⁶

Physical safety: Improving your hearing can help you stay aware of your surroundings and navigate everyday situations more safely, such as hearing approaching vehicles or other important environmental sounds. Hearing loss has also been associated with an increased risk of falls.⁷

Heart health: Some studies have shown that treating hearing loss with hearing aids and focusing on cardiovascular health could help reduce the risks of a heart attack or stroke.⁸

Overall health and fitness: Hearing aids could help you maintain an active lifestyle and improve your physical health.⁷

Does health insurance help cover hearing aids?

Coverage for hearing aids under traditional health insurance can vary. While many plans provide limited or no coverage, some plans may offer benefits for hearing aids and related services. For example, 20 states require insurance companies to cover hearing aids for adults in most insurance plans. Additionally, five states require coverage for adults, although specific plans may be exempt from mandates:⁹

Arkansas

Connecticut

Illinois

New Hampshire

Rhode Island

Additionally, Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage) plans may cover hearing aids, exams, and hearing services. Exact coverage varies by plan. Medicare Parts A and B don't cover hearing aids but Medicare Part B does cover diagnostic hearing and balance exams if a provider orders these tests to see if a person requires medical treatment for a condition other than hear loss.¹⁰

Outside of these instances, some insurers may offer private plans with hearing aid coverage. However, these may be more difficult to find, and exact coverage can vary by plan.

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Tips for getting affordable hearing aids

Hearing aids costs can vary anywhere from $20 to $8,500 a pair, depending on a variety of factors.¹¹ Since many health plans don't offer hearing aid coverage, and those that do may not cover the full cost,¹⁰ here are some options that may help make hearing aids more affordable:

Consider over-the-counter hearing aids

In 2022, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration established a new category for Over-the-Counter (OTC) hearing aids to help increase accessibility for people with hearing loss without a prescription.¹² The average cost for OTC hearing aids are $502 per pair.¹¹ This can provide an affordable and convenient alternative for those with mild to moderate hearing loss. However, people with more severe hearing loss should still see a physician for treatment.¹³

Find hearing aid discounts

Hearing aid retailers and manufacturers may offer discounts or deals on hearing aids. For example, they may run holiday sales or special promotions yearly. Organizations like AAA and AARP may also offer eligible members hearing aid discounts. Audiologists and licensed hearing aid dispensers might be able to provide additional advice on ways to find hearing aid discounts or point you to places where you could get better deals.

Consider financing solutions

Financing options can help you spread the cost of hearing aids over time so you don't have to pay the full price upfront. Some common financing solutions include:

Retailer financing: Some retailers may offer monthly payment plans if you purchase your hearing aids through them. They may offer a variety of financing terms, subject to eligibility and approval.

Health and Wellness Credit Cards: Health and Wellness credit cards are designed to help cardholders cover healthcare expenses, but are separate from other cards you may use for everyday expenses. Some health and wellness credit cards may allow providers to offer promotional financing on certain purchase. Paying the full balance within the promotional period can help you avoid interest.¹⁴ Otherwise, you may owe all deferred interest.

Seek financial support from non-profit organizations

Various non-profit organizations can help you find affordable hearing aids. Criteria to qualify can vary by organization, and you generally fill out an application to see if you're eligible. Here are a few non-profit organizations that can help you get affordable hearing aids:¹⁵

Miracle-Ear Foundation

Starkey Hearing Foundation

Help America Hear

The Hearing Aid Project website has more information on charitable organizations that help with hearing aids. Additionally, states and localities may have their own organizations that help residents get affordable hearing aids and related hearing care.

Can insurance help cover the cost of hearing aids?

Traditional medical insurance may not cover hearing aids. That's where a supplemental insurance policy offered by insurers like Aflac may help. Coverage can vary by plan, but some policies may help with costs associated with hearing care, including hearing aids and other related services.

Learn more about Aflac's Dental, Vision and Hearing plan

Hearing aids don't just help you hear better. They can help support your overall health and help you live a satisfying life. However, the devices alone can be pricey. That doesn't account for the exams, batteries, and repairs. Fortunately, Aflac's Dental, Vision and Hearing plan can help reduce out-of-pocket expenses, making hearing care more affordable. Speak with an agent today to learn more and get a quote.

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