What Medicare doesn't cover, a Medicare Advantage Plan may

Need hearing aids? Think you're covered by Medicare?

Think again.

If you have Original Medicare, you will not be covered for the cost of routine hearing exams, hearing aids or fittings for hearing aids. Medicare Part B only covers diagnostic and balance exams if your doctor or other health care provider orders these test to see if you need medical treatment for balance issues, vertigo or a recent injury.  

Even if your exam is covered by Medicare Part B, you will still be responsible for the Part B deductible and 20% of the Medicare approved amount for the doctor’s services. If your test is done in a hospital setting, you may also be responsible to pay hospital co-pay costs.  

If you have a Medicare Advantage plan or Medicare Supplement, you may have coverage for a percentage of hearing exams and hearing aids. Your first step should be to review your Insurance Plan’s Summary of Benefits and Coverage or contact your agent to find out what your plan includes. Be sure to ask if your plan requires that you go through specific approved suppliers or if the plan has other guidelines you will need to follow.

Talk to your doctor or other health care provider to find out how much your test, hearing aids and other services will cost. The amount you’ll owe will depend on several things including how much your doctor charges, whether your doctor accepts assignments and where you get your test and hearing aid. Let your doctor know you’re concerned about costs in order to avoid being surprised with an unexpected big bill.

Now, during Medicare Open Enrollment, is a good time to look into a Medicare Advantage plan that offers coverage for hearing.  I can show you a number of plans with this option.

Other Options
In some cases, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs may offer financial assistance or reduced cost hearing aids for Veterans. Vets are eligible for hearing aids if their hearing loss is connected to their military service or linked to a medical condition treated at a VA hospital. Veterans can also get devices if their hearing loss is severe enough to interfere with activities of daily life. For details, contact your local Veterans Medical Center or visit http://www.cleveland.va.gov/.

Hearing loss is not just inconvenient; it’s a serious health condition. Better hearing may lead to a better life. 

If you would like to learn more about Medicare Advantage Plans that include coverage for hearing, dental and eye care, please contact me at 440-255-5700 or email me. I can show you a variety of plans that will provide the coverage you’re looking for.