Medicare Coverage for Hearing
It is more common as we age, anyone can experience hearing loss. About 15% of American adults over 18 report some trouble hearing—and about one in three people ages 65 to 74 has hearing loss. If you’re looking into Medicare coverage for hearing, here’s what you should know about hearing exams, hearing aids, and.audiology services.
Does Medicare Cover Hearing Exams?
Does Original Medicare cover hearing tests?
Medicare Part B covers diagnostic hearing exams that are medically necessary and ordered by your doctor or health care provider to evaluate a hearing or balance concern.
Can you see an audiologist without a referral?
You can see an audiologist once every 12 months without a doctor’s order, but only for:
-
Non-acute hearing conditions
-
Diagnostic services related to hearing loss that may be treated with surgically implanted hearing devices
Medicare Hearing Exam Costs: Deductible and Coinsurance
Hearing exam costs vary based on the type of tests and where you live. With Original Medicare (Part B):
-
You pay the annual Part B deductible first (if you haven’t already met it)
-
Then you typically pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for the visit and tests
Example: If your visit and tests total $500, you would pay $100 (20%) after meeting your deductible, and Medicare would cover the remaining $400. A Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan will help cover your coinsurance/copayment.
Does Medicare Cover Hearing Aids?
Does Original Medicare pay for hearing aids?
No. Original Medicare generally does not cover hearing aids.
Medicare Advantage Hearing Aid Coverage (Part C)
Do Medicare Advantage plans cover hearing aids?
Many Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans offer extra benefits that Original Medicare doesn’t—often including hearing coverage. Benefits vary by plan, but may include:
-
Hearing aid fittings
-
Hearing screenings with no or low copay
-
Education on using hearing aids
-
Routine and diagnostic hearing exams
-
A selection of hearing aids
-
Annual provider follow-ups
-
Sometimes: hearing aid repairs and adjustments
Tip: Plan benefits can differ widely, so it’s important to compare coverage details before enrolling.
Help Paying for Hearing Aids: Other Options
Hearing aids through VA benefits
If you served in the military, you may qualify for hearing care and/or hearing aids through the VA health care system, depending on eligibility.
State assistance programs for hearing aids
Some states offer programs that provide financial assistance for hearing aids based on income or other requirements. Availability varies by state.
If you need financial assistance for hearing aids and hearing exams, the National Council on Aging lists the resources below for possible help:
- Sertoma, a civic service organization that has a comprehensive listing of national and state charitable programs, organized by state.
- Help America Hear is an assistance program that provides new hearing aids for people with low income.
- The Hearing Industries Association maintains a Guide to Financial Assistance for Hearing Aids.
- The Hearing Loss Association of America offers guidance on its Financial Assistance webpage.
- Your local Lions’ Clubs may have projects for affordable hearing aids to those in need. Contact your local chapter to see if it offers this program.
Medicare Coverage for Cochlear Implants
Does Medicare cover cochlear implants?
Yes—Medicare typically covers cochlear implants if medically necessary. Medicare may cover:
-
The implant surgery
-
Required tests and evaluations related to cochlear implant candidacy
You may still have out-of-pocket costs such as deductibles and coinsurance. A Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan will help cover your coinsurance/copayment.
Does Medicare Cover Audiology Services?
Does Medicare pay for audiologist visits?
Medicare typically covers audiology services that are medically necessary, including diagnostic hearing tests ordered by a doctor or provider to assess a hearing or balance problem.
