Does Medicaid Cover Hearing Aids? – Overview
Hearing loss is one of the most common public health issues. Those with Medicare and Medicaid health insurance can resolve their issues with hearing aid coverage under the health insurance. Does Medicaid cover hearing aids?
This is the most common question asked by those with Medicaid health insurance. The answer lies within this post.
What is Medicaid?
Medicaid is a Federal and Government Health Insurance program designed for low-income families and unique communities of the Citizens of the US. The insurance provides free or low-cost medical services to eligible people.
State governments have to follow the regulations set by the Federal department under their policy for those who have availed of Medicaid Health Insurance.
So, the answer to your question, “Does Medicaid cover hearing aids?” depends upon the state where you live.
Many states in the US provide coverage for hearing loss; however, some states don’t follow this pattern. So it depends upon where you live. Let’s collect some more details about this insurance.
Medicaid for Hearing Aids
Medicaid coverage for hearing aids varies by state, with some states providing full coverage for children and adults, subject to specific eligibility criteria. The ability to get coverage for hearing loss through Medicaid differs from state to state. You can get coverage for basic things related to hearing aids, such as the test for hearing aids.
Medicaid Health Insurance has different categories; each category provides a different set of benefits.
Does Medicaid Cover Hearing Aids? – Medicaid for Hearing Aids
Those suffering from hearing loss problems can have a poor quality of life. Due to this inability, they can’t deal with day-to-day activities and must suffer a lot. Well, there are many ways to repair hearing loss issues. The Federal Government mandates EPSDT services for children, which includes hearing screenings under the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment (EPSDT) service. Still, adult coverage is determined by individual states.
State Medicaid programs may update their policies and coverage benefits periodically.
Therefore, you must check the hearing aid coverage on your state government’s website.
We have prepared a list of States that offer Medicaid Coverage for Hearing Aids. Check it out and see if your state’s name is mentioned there!
Coverage under Hearing Aids: List of States
- Alaska
- California (with reimbursement cap, except for pregnant women)
- Connecticut
- Florida
- Hawaii
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Maine
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Missouri (only for blind and pregnant adults, and those in nursing facilities)
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire (only if needed for educational/vocational purposes)
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oregon
- Rhode Island (only for adults under certain income level)
- South Dakota
- Texas
- Utah (only for pregnant adults)
- Vermont
- Washington
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
- District of Columbia
This is the list of states that provide you coverage with Medicaid for hearing aids. If you live in any of the above-listed conditions and have Medicaid health insurance, you can get coverage for hearing aids under Medicaid from the State Government.
Discussing this with the authorities before you go for any treatment with Medicaid insurance would be best.
Check their policies and what type of coverage you will receive from their official websites.
Does Medicaid Cover Hearing Aids? – List of States
Medicaid doesn’t follow general guidelines as it depends upon the state governments. So, the rules and regulations may vary, and the process to get coverage for hearing loss or to recover from hearing problems may vary. Your doctor will tell you more about the same.
In some states, you will be provided full coverage to recover from your hearing problems. In some states, the range will depend on low to moderate hearing loss levels.
If you live in a different state not listed above, you should start looking for other financial options for hearing aids. Let’s check out what are the different options available for you.
How much do Hearing Aids Cost?
Hearing aids are the most advanced devices designed for humans who have lost their ability to hear naturally. They are pretty expensive and not affordable for everyone.
Yes, you heard that right. The cost of hearing aids may vary from state to state as there are many types available from different manufacturers.
Current hearing aid prices typically range from $1,000 to $4,000 per ear for traditional devices. The cost depends on how they are made and the technology used by the manufacturer to design them.
If you go with the latest technology, you will be charged extra. You can get suitable hearing aids from the market per your pocket size. If you have enough money in your pocket, then you can get the most advanced pair of hearing aids for your ears.
Financial Assistance for Hearing Aids
Not everyone can afford even the $ 1,000-per-ear hearing aid. Therefore, they always look for financial support to afford a pair of hearing aids; here are some options available.
1. Financial Assistance from Government Programs
Several government programs provide coverage for hearing aids other than Medicaid. Eligible veterans may receive hearing aids at no cost through the Veterans Health Administration. Medicare Part B covers diagnostic hearing exams only when ordered by a physician for a medical condition, not for hearing aid evaluations, but it does not cover hearing aids or exams for fitting hearing aids.
See also: Does Medicare Cover Hearing Aids
2. CareCredit
CareCredit is a healthcare credit card that offers financing options and other services for hearing loss problems. You can get some financial assistance through this program as well.
3. Nonprofit Organizations
Many Nonprofit Organizations, such as The Hike Fund, Audient, The National Hearing Aid Project, Starkey Hearing Aid Foundation, and many others, provide financial assistance to the needy.
If the applicant meets the organization’s criteria, he can receive financial aid.
Some NGOs provide full coverage for hearing aids, while some NGOs provide half the discount on the hearing aids.
4. Financial Assistance from Private Entities
You can also get financial assistance from private institutions such as banks and other entities. Private organizations also provide financial support to low-income families at low interest rates.
Does Medicaid Provide Coverage for Children with Hearing Aids?
All children under 21 enrolled in Medicaid are eligible for hearing aid services under the EPSDT (Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment) program, ensuring comprehensive and preventive health services.
This program is for every citizen under the age of 21 who has enrolled for Medicaid, irrespective of the state they live in.
Final Words:
Medicaid does provide coverage for hearing aids, but not entirely. You can get coverage as per the state’s rules under their policy. Check if the state you live in is listed in the above list.
Get all the information about Medicaid and its coverage before you go for the treatment. Understand the state’s rules, know what type of coverage is included, etc.
We have also enlisted other financial options for you if your state doesn’t provide you coverage for hearing aids.
See Also
Dermatologists That Accept Medicaid
Does Medicare Cover Cataract Surgery
Does Medicaid Cover Eye Exams?
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