Do you or a loved one have hearing loss? You are not alone.
Many people need hearing aids, especially as they get older.
Many people ask:
- Does Medicare pay for hearing aids?
- Will Medicare pay for hearing aids?
- Are hearing aids covered by Medicare?
The short answer is it depends on your plan.
Below, you can learn how Medicare helps with hearing aids for seniors and with hearing care at any age.
Does Medicare cover hearing exams? If so, which Medicare parts do?
Medicare has four parts.
They are Parts A, B, C and D.
- Original Medicare is Parts A and B.
- Original Medicare doesn't cover hearing aids.
- Original Medicare also doesn't cover hearing test/exams or hearing aid fittings.
There is one exception.
If your doctor orders hearing tests/exams or balance tests, Medicare Part B may cover them.
In this case:
- You pay 20 percent of the Medicare approved amount
- You also pay the Medicare Part B deductible
Some Medicare Advantage plans, also called Part C, may include hearing coverage.
Check your Evidence of Coverage to see what your plan includes.
Does Medicare cover cochlear implants?
Cochlear implants are small devices placed with surgery.
These hearing devices help people with severe hearing loss understand sound.
If a cochlear implant is medically needed, Medicare may cover it.
You may still pay some Medicare costs, such as:
Find a Medicare-approved cochlear implant provider near you
How much do hearing aids cost?
Hearing aids can cost different amounts.
Prices change based on:
- Features
- Brand
- Technology level
High-tech hearing aids often cost more than basic ones.
The most important thing is finding the right pair of hearing aids for you.
Take time to look at your hearing aid options.
Check plan options and costs in your ZIP code
Get a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan for hearing benefits
Original Medicare usually does not include hearing benefits.
Some Medicare Advantage plans may cover:
Check your plan details to see what is covered.
If you don't have these Medicare benefits, you can talk to your insurer.
They can help you look at Medicare Advantage plans with hearing coverage today and get on your way to clearer hearing.
Hearing aids for seniors and older adults
Hearing loss is common with age.
Many older adults search for hearing aids for hearing loss solutions.
The right hearing aid can improve daily life.
It can help with conversations, safety and independence.
If hearing aid coverage is important to you, an Aetna® Medicare Advantage plan may help. It could help you get access to clearer hearing.
AirPods® headphones as hearing aids
A hearing aid from Apple®? You read that right!
Apple® AirPods® wireless headphones may work as hearing aids for some people. The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) says certain AirPods can qualify as over-the-counter hearing aids.* You may ask if Medicare covers them.
Medicare coverage may be possible, but it's not guaranteed.
These devices are new to the hearing aid market.
Ask your insurer if they are covered under your plan.
If you are an Aetna Member, log in to check your hearing coverage details
Want to learn more about hearing aids and their coverage under Medicare?
We’re here to help. To speak with a licensed agent, call us at:
1-833-206-7237 ${tty}
Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 8 PM
View and compare all Medicare plan options in your area
Disclaimer: Apple, the Apple logo and AirPods are trademarks of Apple, Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple, Inc.