Hearing aids are a necessary medical device for many people with hearing loss, but the cost of these devices can be prohibitive. Most insurance providers don't cover the cost of hearing aids, and the prices can vary dramatically. In this article, we'll discuss why hearing aids are so expensive, what you're really paying for when you buy them, and ways to make them more affordable. The price of hearing aids includes the retail cost of the device and the professional audiology services required to install and program them.
This fee may include initial diagnostic tests, repair and maintenance for a specified period of time, and follow-up office visits. In some cases, hearing aids can be sold “unbundled” or without professional services included. The cost of hearing aids is influenced by several factors. Today, audiologists offer a wide variety of hearing aid types, each of which has unique advantages and disadvantages for individuals based on their hearing health needs.
Premium hearing aids feature rechargeable batteries that can offer up to 30 hours of continuous use before requiring recharging. They may also be small and discreet compared to low-end models. The price of the package may also include one or two follow-up office visits, after which you pay out of pocket for each visit to the audiology office. An audiogram is usually covered by private health insurance and can help determine if your hearing loss is age-related or if it is caused by a medical condition that requires more attention and follow-up treatment.
Hearing aid programming is a verification and validation process that measures the sound amplified by the hearing aid before it reaches the ear canal and quantifies the number of decibels that patients hear. Professional maintenance checks every six months are usually included in the package price to keep your hearing aids running smoothly as well. The U. S.
Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently approved over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids, which could potentially expand Medicare coverage to include hearing aid coverage and related services. Additionally, research and development generates much of the cost of hearing aids as researchers work to improve these small but powerful medical devices that are customized to mimic natural hearing.There are several ways to save on the cost of hearing aids. Discount options can sometimes restrict the amount of services you can receive from an audiologist for the hearing aids you choose or limit the warranty options available to you. Additionally, some manufacturers offer financing options or discounts for veterans or seniors.Integrating hearing aids into your wellness plan is one of the easiest ways to mitigate risks associated with untreated hearing loss such as increased cognitive impairment and social isolation.
The best hearing aids for you come with the right support for hearing health at a price that fits your budget.
