Quick Answer
No, Original Medicare does not cover hearing aids or exams for fitting hearing aids. However, some Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans may offer hearing benefits that include hearing aids. Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans do not cover hearing aids either, as they only supplement what Original Medicare covers. Over-the-counter hearing aids are available without a prescription since October 2022.
Coverage Comparison by Plan Type
| Plan Type | Coverage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Original Medicare (Part A & B) | Not Covered | Does not cover hearing aids, hearing exams, or fitting exams |
| Medicare Advantage (Part C) | Varies by Plan | Coverage varies by plan and ZIP code; check network audiologists |
| Medicare Supplement (Medigap) | Not Covered | Supplements Original Medicare only; no additional hearing benefits |
| Ancillary / Standalone Policy | Covered | Often bundled with vision and dental; coverage limits vary by carrier |
Understanding Your Coverage Options
Original Medicare (Part a & B)
Does NOT cover hearing aidsOriginal Medicare (Medicare Part A and Part B) does not provide coverage for hearing aids or exams for fitting hearing aids. Beneficiaries are responsible for 100% of these costs as Original Medicare does not deem hearing aids medically necessary.
In some cases, Medicare may cover hearing exams if your practitioner orders them in conjunction with another medical issue. For example, if your provider requests a diagnostic hearing and balance exam because you have a history of falling regularly, Medicare Part B will provide coverage.
What It Covers
- Diagnostic hearing exams ordered by a doctor for a medical condition
- Cochlear implants when medically necessary
- Balance exams related to medical conditions
What It Doesn't Cover
- Hearing aids of any type
- Routine hearing exams
- Hearing aid fitting exams
- Hearing aid batteries or repairs
Beneficiaries pay 100% of hearing aid costs out-of-pocket under Original Medicare.
Medicare Advantage (Part C)
Some plans offer hearing benefitsMedicare Advantage plans (Part C) may offer hearing benefits that include hearing aids. However, not all plans have this benefit, and the coverage varies by plan and ZIP code. Check network audiologists and the plan's Evidence of Coverage for details.
Some Medicare Advantage plans offer a hearing aid allowance (typically $500–$3,000 per ear every 1–3 years). Others may include routine hearing exams and discounted hearing aid programs.
What It Covers
- Routine hearing exams (many plans)
- Hearing aid allowance (varies by plan)
- Discounted hearing aid programs
- Hearing aid fitting and follow-up visits
What It Doesn't Cover
- Coverage not guaranteed — varies by plan
- Out-of-network audiologists may not be covered
- Premium hearing aids may exceed allowance
Before Enrolling
Verify the plan is available in your area, that your preferred audiologist is in-network, and review the plan's maximum hearing benefit and out-of-pocket costs (copayments, coinsurance, deductibles).
Medicare Supplement (Medigap)
Does NOT cover hearing aidsMedicare Supplement plans work as supplemental coverage to Original Medicare. Also known as Medigap, these policies only cover the out-of-pocket balance of what Medicare covers. Because Medicare does not cover hearing aids, Medicare Supplement plans don't cover them either.
You can, however, enroll in a separate insurance policy that includes hearing services and hearing aids. Often, hearing coverage comes bundled with vision and dental coverage, providing coverage for the most significant gaps in Original Medicare.
Hearing Aid Costs at a Glance
| Type | Price Range | Average Cost | Prescription Required? | Medicare Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prescription Hearing Aids | $1,000 – $8,000 / pair | $4,600 | Yes — audiologist fitting | Not covered |
| Over-the-Counter (OTC) | $250 – $3,000 / pair | $1,600 | No — FDA-approved, available in stores | Not covered |
| Cochlear Implants | Varies | Varies | Yes — doctor must deem necessary | Covered by Part B |
✦ Important Exception: Cochlear Implants are Covered
Cochlear Implants are Covered under Medicare Part B
While Medicare does not cover hearing aids, it does cover cochlear implants when a doctor deems them medically necessary and the beneficiary has met specific criteria. Medicare Part B covers cochlear implants, and beneficiaries with a Medicare Supplement plan will likely spend the least out-of-pocket.
Medicare Part B covers 80% of the approved amount for cochlear implants. You pay the remaining 20% coinsurance after meeting your Part B deductible, unless you have a Medigap plan that covers the coinsurance.
✦ Legislative Update
Medicare Hearing Aid Coverage Act
PendingOriginally introduced as H.R. 2446 in 2021 and reintroduced in January 2023, this bill would allow Medicare to cover one pair of hearing aids every five years for beneficiaries with moderate to severe hearing loss. The bill has not yet passed Congress.
OTC Hearing Aids (Passed)
PassedIn August 2022, the FDA approved over-the-counter hearing aids for adults with mild to moderate hearing loss. These are available in stores without a prescription since October 2022, but are not covered by any Medicare plan.
Alternative Ways to Get Hearing Aids
Even though Original Medicare doesn't cover hearing aids, there are several ways to reduce costs or get assistance.
Many states offer hearing aid assistance programs through Medicaid for low-income beneficiaries. Additionally, organizations like the Starkey Hearing Foundation and Lions Club International provide free or discounted hearing aids to those in need.
Options to Explore
- Medicare Advantage plans with hearing benefits
- State Medicaid programs (coverage varies by state)
- VA hearing aid programs for veterans
- Nonprofit organizations (Starkey Foundation, Lions Club)
- Over-the-counter hearing aids ($250–$3,000)
- Standalone dental/vision/hearing insurance policies
- Costco, Sam's Club, and warehouse club hearing centers
✦ Frequently Asked Questions
David Haass
AuthorDavid Haass is the Chief Technology Officer and Co-Founder of Elite Insurance Partners and MedicareFAQ.com. He is a member and regular contributor to Forbes Finance Council.
Ashlee Zareczny
ReviewerAshlee Zareczny is a licensed Medicare agent in all 50 states dedicated to educating those eligible for Medicare. She trains agents on CMS compliance guidelines.