Hearing aids are expensive and some insurance coverage plans might not even cover them. In fact, only 13% of private insurance plans currently offer hearing aid benefits, but that number could go up by 2022 because of new mandates under the Affordable Care Act. Here’s what you can do to make sure you have the hearing aid insurance coverage you need in 2022 and beyond.
Outline
1) Put a New Policy in Place
2) Determine the type of hearing aid you require.
3) Conduct Research
4) Understand Your Policy's Terms
5) Request a list of In-Network Providers.
1) Implement a New Policy
To make sure you're covered with hearing aids, be sure to ask your insurance company about the following:
-Will you cover out-of-pocket costs and how much is covered?
-What percentage will be paid for out-of-pocket costs?
-Is there a co-pay or deductible?
-Do I need prior authorization from my doctor?
There are a few different types of hearing aids that are all covered by most major health insurers, but some may not cover the type you choose. For example, if your hearing loss is caused by an ear infection, then an open fit would not work as well as a closed fit.
2) Determine the type of hearing aid you require.
When it comes to hearing aids, it can feel like there are just as many different types of devices as there are people with hearing loss. But when it comes to finding insurance coverage, there is really only one thing that matters: the type of device. The two main types of hearing aids are digital and analog. Analog hearing aids have been around a lot longer than digital ones, but they have a more limited range and aren't always customizable to fit your needs. Digital hearing aids are newer and come with many more features, like microphones that capture sound from all directions and amplifiers that automatically adjust their settings based on the noise level. They also tend to be less expensive than analogs because they use a smaller number of parts.
3) Conduct Research
1. Speak to your insurance provider about the hearing aid coverage you have. 2. Ask your provider what type of hearing aids they cover and at what price, as well as whether or not they require a doctor's prescription. 3. Find out if there are any limitations or restrictions on the type of hearing aids you can receive, such as a limit on the number of devices (or years) covered annually. 4.
4) Understand Your Policy's Terms
If your hearing aids are not covered, you will want to talk with your insurance company about a rider. A rider is an additional provision within an insurance policy that can be added on at the time of purchase or at any point thereafter. Many companies offer policies that cover hearing aids as part of their standard coverage. This means that you won't need a rider for this type of coverage. You may want to contact your insurer and find out what plan they offer so you know what coverage you have before purchasing your next set of hearing aids.
5) Request a list of In-Network Providers.
If you currently have hearing aids and are looking for an in-network provider list, we recommend going to your hearing specialist for a list of providers. If you don't know who your hearing specialist is, please contact us and we can help provide you with information.
If you are not yet wearing hearing aids and are considering whether or not this insurance coverage is worth it for you, we recommend that you consider the following:
What is the cost of the device? If there is a high cost associated with it, then insurance may be worth it. Is there a plan set up through work? If so, they may cover part or all of the cost. Do I already have health insurance? If so, chances are they may cover these expenses as well.