If you’re wondering, “Will my insurance cover hearing aids?,” you likely already know that navigating health insurance can be tricky, especially regarding hearing aids.
While you should contact your insurance carrier directly for specific plan details, this quick guide can shed light on the answer to your question.
Will My Insurance Cover Hearing Aids? Here’s What You Need to Know
State law does not require health insurance plans to cover hearing aids for adults. However, it does mandate that this coverage be provided in full or in part for children between 0 to 18 years of age.
Most insurance companies provide some type of coverage for hearing aids. Before making a purchase, it is in your best financial interest to contact your carrier directly and inquire about your plan details.
Here are a few questions you should ask:
- Can you provide me with details regarding hearing-related services including screenings, fittings, and devices? What is covered, and what is not?
- Do I need to choose from a specific list of providers? How do I get the list?
- Do I need a referral from my primary care provider to take advantage of my plan benefits?
- Will I need to submit paperwork for reimbursement in the event my plan has an allowance, or can the provider bill directly?
- What are the stipulations for my coverage?
How Much Should I Expect to Pay for a Hearing Aid?
With insurance, the average cost of a hearing aid is approximately $1,257. The average cost of one hearing aid without insurance is around $2,000.
Costs vary widely, as there are many factors that impact the final price of your device(s). These include but are not limited to your stage of hearing loss, brand, model, technology, and warranties.
Are There Ways to Help Cover the Cost?
Now that you have an answer to your question, “Will my insurance cover hearing aids,” let’s take a look at ways you can offset out-of-pocket expenses. There are resources such as Maryland Division of Rehabilitation Services (DORS) that offer help, including financial assistance.
There are also many credit services for health-related expenses if you wish to apply. Many patients choose to take advantage of funds they have contributed to flexible spending accounts (FSAs) or health savings accounts (HSAs).
If you need help paying for your hearing aid, be sure to speak to a reputable audiologist about your options.
Use These Simple Tips on How to Find a Top Audiologist in Your Area
This is an important decision and you should consider your choices just as carefully as you would when looking for a primary care provider. Here are three steps to find the right audiologist for you:
- Verify credentials, qualifications, and experience. Ideally, you should choose a provider with a doctorate in audiology. You should also check whether they are members of professional organizations, such as the American Academy of Audiology (AAA) or the Academy of Doctors of Audiology (ADA).
You should ask about their continuing education and how they stay current on technology and equipment used for assessments. Find out what services they offer as well.
- Ask for recommendations. Your primary care provider, family, and friends are all valuable resources.
- Schedule a consultation. If you need to schedule more than one to find an audiologist you feel comfortable with, that is okay. It can take time to find the right one, and you should feel at ease with whomever you choose. Always trust your instincts!
For All Aspects of Hearing Health, Choose Potomac Audiology!
We offer screenings, device fittings, educational resources, excellent hearing aid pricing, and so much more! Our patients return time and again because they know our team always provides the highest quality care.
To book your appointment, call us today at 240-477-1010!
