This time of year, more and more people are asking about insurance for hearing care. It’s a wonderful shift because it shows that individuals are prioritizing their hearing health—but we also understand that navigating insurance benefits can feel overwhelming. At Allison Audiology, we’re here to make it easier for you.
To help demystify the process, Dr. Jana Austin, owner and audiologist at Allison Audiology, provides insights into hearing tests, hearing aids, and how to make the most of your insurance coverage.
Does Insurance Cover Hearing Care?
The answer is: It depends. While some insurance plans cover annual hearing evaluations, which are essential for monitoring your hearing health, benefits for hearing aids can vary widely. Some plans offer partial coverage, while others may provide full benefits.
“It’s wonderful when plans offer coverage, but understanding the extent of coverage is important,” says Dr. Austin. “In my experience, it’s common for patients to not fully understand what their insurance covers. That’s why we always encourage our patients to let us help them verify their benefits. Our goal is to help you get the care you need while making the process as seamless as possible.”
Much of the confusion begins with how plan policies are worded.
“If a plan states it has 100 percent coverage for hearing aids, that doesn’t mean all hearing aids are available at no cost to the patient. What this typically means is that 100 percent of the benefit amount—the allowed or contracted amount—is covered, not the total invoice,” explains Dr. Austin. “This can lead to misunderstandings, especially toward the end of the year when deductibles and out-of-pocket totals have been met.”
Dr. Austin often sees this scenario unfold in her practice:
“Many patients assume any hearing device they want will be fully covered. However, if the contracted rate is $3,500 for a pair of devices, then the patient can receive devices up to $3,500 without additional financial responsibility. If they choose technology above that contracted rate, they’re responsible for the difference. That’s why we show patients a variety of options. Some want to stay within their plan benefits, while others may choose a higher-level device—and that’s perfectly okay. It’s all about what is best for the patient and their needs.”
How to Check Your Insurance Benefits for Hearing Aids
Understanding your benefits is key to maximizing them. Dr. Austin and her team recommend the following steps:
1. Review Your Policy:
Look for details under “hearing services” or “durable medical equipment.”
2. Let Us Help:
At Allison Audiology, we’ve been helping patients navigate their benefits for over 30 years. We’ll verify your coverage and provide personalized guidance to explore all your options.
For general information on hearing aid insurance benefits, check out this guide from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).
What If Your Insurance Doesn’t Cover Hearing Aids?
“This is a question I hear often,” says Dr. Austin. “The good news is that there are still plenty of options to make better hearing accessible for everyone.”
- HSAs and FSAs: Many patients use these accounts to pay for hearing aids and related services.
- Flexible Payment Options: Allison Audiology offers payment plans through sources like CareCredit to help space out the investment over time.
“I always remind my patients that investing in hearing aids isn’t just about hearing better—it’s about improving your overall quality of life,” says Dr. Austin.
Why Choose Allison Audiology?
For over 30 years, Allison Audiology has been a trusted provider of hearing healthcare in Houston.
“I’m proud of the relationships we’ve built with our patients and the personalized care we offer,” says Dr. Austin. “Whether you’re coming in for your first hearing test or stepping into new technology, we’re here to support you every step of the way.”
Take the Next Step Toward Better Hearing
If you’re curious about your insurance benefits or it’s been a while since your last hearing test, we encourage you to reach out.
At Allison Audiology, we’re happy to answer your questions, verify your benefits, and guide you toward better hearing.
Your hearing health is too important to wait. Let us help you make the most of your insurance benefits and get on the path to better hearing today.
Take the next step by reaching out to our office at (713) 827-1767 or contacting us here for more information.
