Many insurance companies don't cover hearing aids in their policies, which means that people are going without adequate support for their hearing. Hearing aids are an essential device for those recommended by a qualified hearing instrument specialist, yet they aren't covered in many plans.
Why do insurance companies not cover hearing aids?
The main reason for this is the cost. Many insurance companies don't cover hearing aids in their policies, which means that people are going without adequate support for their hearing. It's important to know why so that steps can be taken to improve the quality of life for those with hearing loss.
How often will insurance pay for hearing aids?
Coverage must include a new hearing aid every five years, a new hearing aid when alterations to the existing hearing aid cannot meet the needs of the child, and services and supplies such as the initial assessment, fitting, adjustments, and auditory training.
Does Medicare pay for hearing aids in 2020?
As of 2020, Medicare parts A and B do not cover hearing aids. According to the Hearing Loss Association of America, the HR 3 bill that Congress passed in 2019 enables the government to negotiate prescription drug costs.
Can hearing aids be medically necessary?
Air conduction hearing aids are considered medically necessary when the following criteria are met: Hearing thresholds 40 decibels (dB) HL or greater at 500, 1000, 2000, 3000, or 4000 hertz (Hz); or. Hearing thresholds 26 dB HL or greater at three of these frequencies; or. Speech recognition less than 94 percent.
Should hearing aids be classified as elective?
Currently, about 20 states require health insurance companies to cover full or partial hearing aid coverage for children—but not for adults. The reason most insurance companies say they don't offer coverage is because according to them, hearing aids are not an essential medical device—they are considered “elective.”
Is a hearing aid considered durable medical equipment?
Durable medical equipment includes medial products, surgical supplies, equipment such as wheelchairs, prosthetic and orthotic devices, and hearing aide services when ordered by a physician as medically necessary in the treatment of a specific medical condition.