Medicare parts A and B do not usually cover the cost of hearing aids. However, Medicare Advantage (Part C) might offer some coverage. Part B may cover surgically implanted bone-anchored hearing aids (BAHA).
As of 2024, Medicare parts A and B do not cover hearing aids. However, Part B will usually cover BAHA, as they consider them to be prosthetics.
Some Medicare Advantage plans may offer coverage for hearing aids. However, the coverage and costs can vary depending on a person’s specific plan.
Read on to learn more about Medicare coverage for hearing aids, how much hearing aids typically cost, and where to get financial help.
Medicare Part A and Medicare Part B do not currently provide coverage for most hearing aids. However, depending on the type of hearing aid and the specific plan, Part B and Medicare Advantage might offer some coverage.
Part B
Medicare Part B covers BAHA. Medicare classifies a BAHA as a prosthetic device and not a hearing aid.
A BAHA is a surgically implanted device that helps people with certain types of hearing loss. It works differently than traditional hearing aids. It transmits sound waves through bone conduction, stimulating the cochlea and bypassing the middle and outer ear.
It is important to understand that a BAHA is not the same as a traditional hearing aid. However, it may be a suitable option to benefit some people with certain types of hearing loss.
Medicare Advantage
Medicare Advantage is an insurance plan that private insurance companies offer to replace Medicare parts A and B. However, the cost and coverage vary by plan. Some plans offer extra benefits, such as dental, vision, and hearing coverage.
Some Medicare Advantage plans may cover hearing aids and the associated costs, such as maintenance.
People considering Medicare Advantage can compare the benefits of individual plans before selecting the best option for their needs.
Learn more about hearing aid insurance.
The cost of hearing aids varies. According to a 2020 report, the average cost of one hearing aid is about $2,500. However, some people may need two hearing aids, which would double this figure.
The high cost of hearing aids may make it difficult for some individuals to treat their hearing loss. However, these devices can considerably improve the quality of life for those with hearing conditions.
Learn more about the cost of hearing aids.
If a person’s Medicare plan does not offer coverage for hearing aids, they may still be able to get help with some of the costs.
Medicaid may cover hearing aids for individuals with a low income. However, Medicaid does not offer hearing aid coverage in every state.
Other sources of support with the cost of hearing aids include:
- local hearing aid banks
- local Lions International clubs
- Tricare for active-duty service member and their family
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs for veterans requiring hearing aids
- Air Force Aid Society for active-duty Air Force personnel
A person may also wish to consider over-the-counter hearing aids if they have
Medicare parts A and B do not cover the cost of hearing aids. However, Medicare Part B may offer coverage for surgically implanted bone-anchored hearing aids (BAHA).
Some Medicare Advantage plans may offer hearing coverage, which can include hearing aids.
A person may be able to receive help with the cost of hearing aids from Medicaid, local hearing aid banks, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and various organizations.