Patients often feel overwhelmed when trying to navigate the process of purchasing hearing aids. There are many different style options, technology considerations, and pricing structures to consider. Furthermore, there are considerations when it comes to insurance coverage as well.
Many patients who need to consider hearing aids have a form of Medicare insurance. While straight Medicare does not typically cover hearing aids, Medicare Advantage plans often offer discounts on hearing aids. These discounts are negotiated between manufacturers of hearing aids and third party companies that work with your insurance.
When purchasing your hearing aids using this negotiated discount you are definitely paying a lower cost for the hearing aids. However, what many patients do not realize is that the negotiations have reduced the services that come with those hearing aids. Audiologists are paid just to fit those hearing aids and help patients get started with their hearing aids. After this initial time period of adapting to the hearing aids, audiologists are no longer paid for their time spent with patients. Insurance companies typically will cover a hearing test once a year as this is considered a diagnostic procedure. However, any services provided regarding the hearing aids after the initial fitting and trial period are generally not covered. Therefore, audiologists must charge patients for their time and services that are provided.
Typically, audiologists recommend after the initial adaptation period that patients return to the office once a year for an annual check up. This appointment allows the audiologist to see if there has been a change in hearing sensitivity and then update the prescription or programming in the hearing aids accordingly. It also allows the audiologist to check the functionality of the hearing aids (electroacoustic analysis) to ensure that they remain in good working order.
We hope that this provides clarification on how we can work together with a third party discount to help you or a loved one hear your very best for years to come!
Your hearing journey starts here! We can’t wait to walk with you through the process to “Experience More” through better hearing.
Call us today or book and appointment online right through our website.
Dr. Tanya McCormack and Dr. Allison Love