● Correct hearing to improve cognitive function

● A key challenge is that hearing aides cost thousands of dollars with questions about quality/comfort.

● Costco has cost effective hearing aides

● $99 hearing aide that can be gotten WITHOUT a prescription: https://go.thegrommet.com/featured/atom/?utm_source=liveintent&utm_content=1387633&liveclick=85c70e8e-e896-308a-9ff0-34873a707c4d (I haven't tested it/researched it but see that 3.5 out 5 on Amazon with comments about battery shelf-life ending after 9 months (it's a rechargeable battery, not replaceable)

● Unfortunately, Medicare FFS doesn't cover hearing aids or exams for fitting hearing aids. (1)

● However, medicare does cover devices that replace the function of the middle ear, cochlea, and auditory nerve (ie surgically implanted devices like cochlear implants, bone anchored hearing aids, auditory brainstem implants, and auditory osseointegrated devices). (3)

● Medicare part B does cover diagnostic hearing and balance exams if ordered by provider to determine need for medical treatment. (2)

● Medicare also covers annual audiologist visit for hearing loss that occurs over many years (ie age related) or diagnostic services related to hearing loss thats treated with surgically implanted hearinng devices. (2)

● Medicaid benefits vary by state

● Medi-Cal covers hearing exams and hearing aids, repair and replacement of hearing aid parts, replacement of lost or damaged hearing aids, ear morlds, hearing aid audiology and post-evaluation services. Hearing aids must be supplied by a dispenser on the prescription of an otolaryngologist or attending physician. (4)

● Under Medi-Cal there is a $1,510 limit per recipient each fiscal year, can be exceeded based on medical necessity.(4)

● Summary: Limited Medicare FFS coverage for hearing aids, unless surgically implanted options. Medicare FFS will cover annual audiologist visits for age related hearing loss. Medi-Cal does cover hearing exams and hearing aids, including their replacement and repair. Med-Cal typically has a limit of $1,510 per recipient per fiscal year, but this can be exceeded for certain medical necessities. (GJ 12/10/24)

References:

1. Hearing Aid Coverage

2. Hearing & balance exams - Your Medicare Coverage

3. Medicare FAQs: Audiology

4. Hearing Benefits for Patients Dually Eligible for Medicare and Medi-Cal:

Version: YT 1/2025