Hearing loss is extremely common among older adults, yet hearing aids can be expensive. Many people wonder: Does Medicare cover the cost of hearing aids?
The short answer is No — Original Medicare does not pay for hearing aids. But there are some exceptions and alternatives you should know.
Contents
Does Medicare Cover Hearing Aids?
Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) does not cover:
Hearing aids
Hearing aid fittings
Routine hearing tests for hearing aid selection
This means if you need hearing aids for age-related hearing loss or long-term hearing problems, you will generally have to pay out-of-pocket.
What Medicare Does Cover for Hearing Care
While hearing aids are not covered, Medicare does provide coverage in certain situations:
1. Diagnostic Hearing and Balance Exams
If your doctor suspects a medical condition—such as ear infections, dizziness, sudden hearing loss, or an injury—Medicare Part B covers diagnostic hearing exams to identify the problem.
These tests must be medically necessary and ordered by a healthcare provider.
2. Surgically Implanted Hearing Devices
Medicare may pay for devices such as:
Cochlear implants
Bone-anchored hearing systems (in certain cases)
These devices are considered medically necessary treatments, not traditional hearing aids.
Does Medicare Advantage Cover Hearing Aids?
Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans are offered through private insurers.
Unlike Original Medicare, many of these plans may provide hearing-aid benefits, such as:
Partial coverage for hearing aids
Discounts on hearing devices
Coverage for annual hearing tests
Lower copays for audiology visits
Coverage varies widely, so beneficiaries must review plan details carefully.
Why Doesn’t Medicare Cover Hearing Aids?
The policy dates back to the original Medicare law, created decades ago. At the time, hearing aids were considered routine and low-cost items. Today, however, digital hearing aids can be expensive, and the demand for hearing care has increased significantly.
Because the law has not been updated, Medicare still excludes hearing aids from its benefits.
Is Medicare Hearing Aid Coverage Changing Soon?
There have been multiple proposals in Congress to add hearing-aid coverage for older adults. Some bills suggest Medicare should start covering hearing aids and fitting services in the coming years. While nothing is finalized yet, discussions are ongoing.
How to Save Money on Hearing Aids Without Medicare
Even though Medicare does not cover hearing aids, several options can help reduce costs:
Choose a Medicare Advantage plan that includes hearing benefits
Look for state assistance programs
Explore non-profit organizations that offer support
Consider basic or entry-level digital hearing aids
Ask clinics about EMI and financing options
Compare prices across multiple hearing-aid providers
Conclusion
Medicare does not pay for hearing aids, but it does cover medically necessary diagnostic exams and certain implanted hearing devices. If you want financial assistance for hearing aids, a Medicare Advantage plan or other local support programs may help.