Does Medicare Cover Hearing Aids?
Original Medicare does not cover hearing aids, but many Medicare Advantage plans do, and Medicare covers cochlear implants and diagnostic exams. Here is how to get coverage.
Original Medicare does not cover hearing aids or the exams to fit them, but many Medicare Advantage plans do. Medicare also covers some medical hearing care, including diagnostic exams and cochlear implants. So whether you are covered depends on the type of care and whether you have Original Medicare or a Medicare Advantage plan. Here are your options.
Does Original Medicare cover hearing aids?
No. Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) does not cover hearing aids or routine hearing aid fitting exams. It does cover certain medical hearing care:
- Diagnostic hearing and balance exams when your doctor orders them to diagnose or treat a condition (not to fit a hearing aid).
- One exam per year with an audiologist without a doctor's order, for non-acute hearing conditions.
- Cochlear implants and bone-anchored hearing aids, which Medicare covers as prosthetic devices for people who qualify (see below).
| Hearing care | Original Medicare | Medicare Advantage (typical) |
|---|---|---|
| Hearing aids | Not covered | Covered by many plans, often via an allowance |
| Routine hearing exam (fitting) | Not covered | Often covered |
| Diagnostic hearing / balance exam | Covered (Part B, if doctor-ordered) | Covered |
| Cochlear implants | Covered (as a prosthetic) | Covered |
The biggest barrier is cost. The average price of one hearing aid ranges from $500 to $3,500, and most people need two, so $1,000 to $7,000 out of pocket. One survey from The Hearing Review found that 50% of Medicare policyholders identified lack of coverage as the reason they cannot afford a hearing aid.
Does Medicare Advantage (Part C) cover hearing aids?
Many do. Medicare Advantage plans are offered by private carriers and often add extra benefits Original Medicare does not, bundling vision, hearing, and dental coverage with your Part A and B.
These hearing benefits may include routine hearing exams and an allowance toward hearing aids, often through a hearing network. Coverage varies by plan and ZIP code, so compare the allowance amount when choosing a Medicare Advantage plan. If you are new to Medicare or want to switch, you can enroll during the Annual Enrollment Period. If you already have an Advantage plan and are unsure whether hearing aids are covered, contact your insurer or check your provider manual.
Does Medicare cover cochlear implants?
Yes. Unlike hearing aids, cochlear implants (and bone-anchored hearing aids) are classified as prosthetic devices, so Original Medicare covers them for people who meet the medical criteria. Part B generally applies for outpatient surgery and Part A for inpatient, with the usual deductibles and coinsurance. This is an important distinction: a hearing aid is not covered, but a cochlear implant can be.
Does Medicaid cover hearing aids?
For adults, Medicaid coverage for hearing services depends heavily on your state, as do the costs, requirements, and eligibility. For children under 21, Medicaid is required to cover hearing services, including screening, diagnosis, treatment, and hearing aids. To check your state, see the Hearing Loss Association of America or your state government website.
Ways to save if you are not covered
- Over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids. Since 2022, adults with mild-to-moderate hearing loss can buy OTC hearing aids without a prescription, often under $1,000 a pair. They are simpler than prescription devices, so severe loss may still need a prescription aid.
- Charities and nonprofits. Some organizations refurbish donated hearing aids and provide them free to low-income people. Ask your audiologist about programs.
- A Medicare Advantage plan with a hearing benefit. For many people this is the most straightforward way to lower the cost.
Common questions about Medicare and hearing aids
Does Original Medicare cover hearing aids?
No. Parts A and B do not cover hearing aids or the exams to fit them. Medicare does cover doctor-ordered diagnostic hearing exams and cochlear implants.
Does Medicare Advantage cover hearing aids?
Many plans do, usually as a routine hearing exam plus an allowance toward hearing aids. The amount varies by plan, so it is worth comparing.
Does Medicare cover cochlear implants?
Yes. Cochlear implants are covered by Original Medicare as prosthetic devices for people who qualify, unlike standard hearing aids.
Does Medicare cover hearing exams?
Part B covers diagnostic hearing and balance exams when a doctor orders them for a medical reason. It does not cover routine exams to fit a hearing aid, though Medicare Advantage plans often do.
How much do hearing aids cost without Medicare?
Prescription hearing aids commonly run $500 to $3,500 each. Over-the-counter hearing aids for mild-to-moderate loss can cost under $1,000 a pair.
If you feel your coverage is not adequate, a licensed Medicare Advocate will compare the hearing benefits of the Medicare Advantage plans in your area, at no cost. Give us a call.