Are some types of health coverage better than others at helping patients afford hearing aids?
A recent study from Keck Medicine of USC has shown that some types of health insurance coverage are better than others at helping patients afford hearing aids. And while a large percentage of older Americans who need hearing aids aren’t using them, patients are more likely to use hearing aids when their insurance provides better coverage.
Hearing loss can have a serious impact on patients and the people closest to them. According to the National Institute on Aging, hearing loss heightens the risk of dementia, depression and falls. Conversely, recently published Keck Medicine research has shown that using hearing aids could help people live longer.
Now, Keck Medicine researchers hope that highlighting the link between hearing aid accessibility and rates of use will spur improvements in coverage.
What can people experiencing hearing loss do in the meantime? The experts of the USC Hearing and Balance Center, part of the USC Caruso Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery and Keck Medicine, share how patients might get past the cost barrier.
Take a look at your health coverage
Review your coverage each year during open enrollment, or when you have a life event such as marriage, divorce or change of employment. Then, check out any other available options. A plan that offers hearing aid coverage may seem more expensive, but the money saved on a needed device could more than make up the difference.
Explore nonprofit groups
Several nonprofits are dedicated to supporting people who have experienced hearing loss. A few examples include:
- Help America Hear
- Hearing Aid Project
- Starkey Hearing Foundation
The help they can offer may vary, so be sure to check out at least a few organizations so you can find the best fit for your situation.
Clinical trials
Some clinical trials on hearing aids and other assistive listening devices will let participants keep the devices after the trial is over. Read clinical trial details carefully to see if this is an option.
Talk to your doctor
Your otolaryngologist or audiologist will usually have up-to-date information on nonprofit groups and other resources. They may also have information on upcoming clinical trials, especially if they belong to an academic health system like Keck Medicine.
If you need to invest in hearing aids, or suspect you might need them, the experts of the USC Hearing and Balance Center and the USC Caruso Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery can help.
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