For many, hearing loss creeps in gradually. It starts off by asking people to repeat themselves, struggling in crowded conversations, and turning the TV volume up higher than usual. By the time you realize you need hearing care, you may be surprised that most plans do not include routine hearing coverage.
Learn how Medicare and Marketplace plans fall short, and why hearing coverage is just as important as conventional health insurance.
How Medicare Covers Hearing Services
Original Medicare typically covers cochlear implants and surgery to install them. It also covers diagnostic hearing tests ordered by a physician for a medical condition. However, it stops short of covering the solutions most people need.
Original Medicare (Parts A & B) generally does not cover:
- Routine hearing exams
- Hearing aids
- Fittings or follow-up adjustments
Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C) may help cover the cost of routine hearing exams, fittings, and hearing aids, but coverage and benefit amounts vary from plan to plan. Since it’s not a plan requirement, carriers can choose to eliminate or decrease hearing benefits each year.
How Marketplace Plans Cover Hearing Services
You may be surprised to learn that hearing care is not an “Essential Health Benefit” under the Affordable Care Act. Therefore, plans are not typically required to include this coverage.
However, a handful of states require hearing coverage to be included in their Marketplace plans. When it comes to Marketplace plans, hearing coverage is typically limited to cochlear implants and diagnostic hearing exams recommended by a physician.
The Real Cost of Hearing Loss
Hearing aids and related care can be expensive without coverage:
- The average cost of hearing aids can range from $2,000 to $7,000 (per pair)
- Exams, fittings, and maintenance add to the total cost
- Devices may need replacement every few years
For many, these costs lead to delays in treatment or going without care altogether. But untreated hearing loss isn’t just inconvenient—It’s linked to social isolation, cognitive decline, increased risk of falls, and reduced overall quality of life.
Why Hearing Coverage Matters
Dedicated hearing coverage helps bridge the gap left by Medicare and Marketplace plans. With the right plan, you can expect:
1. Access to Routine Care
Regular hearing exams help detect issues early and track changes over time.
2. Savings on Hearing Aids
Coverage or discounts can significantly reduce the cost of devices and fittings.
3. Ongoing Support
Adjustments, maintenance, and follow-up visits are essential and usually included.
4. Better Quality of Life
Clear hearing improves communication, confidence, and connection with others.
Living Life, Loud & Clear
Hearing is a vital part of staying active, independent, and connected. Even mild hearing loss can impact daily life. Without additional coverage, you could be left paying out of pocket for something that directly affects how you engage with the world around you.
Before symptoms worsen, take a closer look at what your current plan includes. You may find that adding dedicated hearing coverage is one of the smartest decisions you can make for your long-term well-being.
If you have questions about hearing coverage—or want to explore savings—
call AMAC’s Medicare Advisory Service today at 1-855-611-4856 or click the image below to request a quote.
