Understanding Your Blue Cross Hearing Aid Coverage
If you're struggling with hearing loss, hearing aids can greatly improve your quality of life. But these important devices can be quite expensive, often costing anywhere from $1,000 up to $5,000 or even more per hearing aid.
Is Blue Cross Blue Shield Insurance Required to Cover Hearing Aids?
No, original Medicare and most Blue Cross Blue Shield plans do not cover hearing aids as a standard benefit. However, some BCBS plans may offer additional coverage through supplementary insurance benefits or packages. Here's what you need to know about getting hearing aid coverage with Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance.
Does Medicare Cover Hearing Aids?
Most Blue Cross Medicare Advantage plans, like original Medicare, provide very limited hearing aid coverage:
- Original Medicare does not cover routine hearing exams, hearing aids, or exams to fit hearing aids.
- Some diagnostic hearing exams may be covered if ordered by a doctor to diagnose certain medical conditions.
- Most Medicare Advantage plans offered by BCBS companies also do not cover hearing aids.
- A few plans may provide discounts or rebates on hearing devices and exams.
Blue Cross Blue Shield Hearing Benefits by Plan Type
Coverage can vary greatly depending on your specific Blue Cross plan type:
Individual and Family Plans
Most BCBS individual health insurance plans sold through the Affordable Care Act health insurance marketplaces do not cover hearing aids. Certain qualifying conditions like congenital hearing issues may warrant some coverage for children in family plans up to age 18 or 21.
Group Employer Insurance Plans
Many employers choose supplemental coverage add-ons like Dental/Vision & Hearing plans. Check if your employer's BCBS group plan includes any hearing aid coverage, discounts, or reimbursement allowance per year. Coverage can range significantly from $500 to $2,500 or more towards hearing aids and exams.
Medicaid Plans
Coverage varies greatly by state. Over 30 states now offer some level of hearing aid coverage for children and sometimes adults through Medicaid. Benefits range from a basic discount program, to covering specific hearing aid models, to providing a hearing aid allowance. Contact your state's Medicaid office for specifics.
How to Use Your Blue Cross Hearing Benefits
If your BCBS insurance plan does offer hearing aid coverage, be sure to follow any requirements about using in-network providers, getting a medical clearance exam, using approved hearing devices on the plan's formulary list, and filing claims properly.Finding Blue Cross In-Network Hearing Care Providers
Working with in-network, preferred providers is always best when using insurance coverage. BCBS plans usually contract with only a limited number of hearing centers and audiologists. Contact Member Services to ask for a list of contracted hearing aid providers in your local area.
Getting a Hearing Test Prior to Using Coverage
Most plans that cover hearing aids require you to first have a medical clearance exam by an ear, nose and throat doctor (otolaryngologist), along with a hearing test by an audiologist. This verifies your hearing loss and rules out any medical conditions contributing to hearing issues.
Using Your Hearing Aid Allowance
If your plan provides an annual dollar allowance or reimbursement for hearing aids (common amounts are $500, $1,000 or $2,000), this benefit allowance can only by used at the plan's contracted hearing centers and audiology clinics when purchasing approved hearing aids.
Filing Hearing Aid Claims
After purchasing hearing devices at an in-network provider, you will need to properly file an insurance claim listing details of the specific hearing aids purchased. Be sure to get detailed receipts showing make and model numbers. Keep copies of all claim paperwork and Explanation of Benefits statements from your insurer.
Hearing Aid Discounts Through Blue365
If your regular BCBS health plan does not include hearing assistance coverage, most Blue Cross companies offer exclusive savings on hearing care through the Blue365 members-only discount program.
Registering for Blue365 Savings
To access Blue365 deals, first make sure to register your account online. Then you can view all the latest hearing health special offerings and featured discounts from leading hearing aid brands and hearing care providers in your area. Offers include:
- Free hearing screenings
- Discounted diagnostic hearing evaluations
- Savings up to 60% off advanced hearing aids
- Reduced prices on batteries and accessories
Using Blue365 Hearing Aid Discounts
Simply print off the appropriate Blue365 coupon codes for instant savings at checkout. Or when booking appointments, let the hearing center know you want to redeem your Blue365 hearing health discounts through your BCBS membership.
These special rates can help lower your out-of-pocket costs on hearing exams and make hearing aids more affordable. Just remember Blue365 discounts cannot be combined with your standard health insurance coverage and claims if you have separate hearing aid benefits.
Other Ways to Reduce Hearing Aid Costs
Shopping Around for the Best Pricing
Partner with different hearing centers and audiologists to compare prices across various makes and models to find the best hearing aids affordable for your budget.
Choosing From a Range of Hearing Aid Styles and Features
The latest advanced hearing aids with rechargeable batteries, connectivity and smart app controls can cost over $5,000 for a pair. More basic hearing amplifiers start around $500-$1,000 for a set and may work well for milder hearing issues.
Asking About Payment Plans
Many leading hearing aid manufacturers and retailers now offer 0% financing programs for 12-18 months so you can spread out costs interest-free.
Just because original Medicare and most regular BCBS health plans exclude hearing coverage, doesn’t mean you can’t find ways through supplemental benefits or Blue365 member discounts to reduce hearing care costs. Partner with knowledgeable hearing professionals to navigate your options.Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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