Does Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield Cover Hearing Aids?

Hearing aids are not covered by Original Medicare, but many Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield (Anthem) Medicare Advantage plans may cover hearing care or hearing aids.

Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Medicare Advantage plans cover everything included under Original Medicare (Medicare Part A and Part B). Many of these plans also include additional benefits not offered by Original Medicare such as dental, vision, hearing, or prescription drug coverage. Coverage for hearing aids may be among the additional benefits included with Medicare Advantage plans.  

Which Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Medicare Advantage Plans Cover Hearing Aids?

According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, 97% of Medicare Advantage plans include hearing coverage, and many of those plan benefits include coverage of hearing aids.³ Anthem has Medicare Advantage plans in nearly every state, so you may be able to find a plan near you that includes hearing coverage or hearing aids.

When are Hearing Aids Covered by Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Medicare Advantage Plans?

Hearing aid coverage may vary from one Medicare Advantage plan to another, and benefits may include coverage for a new set of hearing aids every year or every other year. It’s not uncommon for plans to also cover hearing aid fittings, batteries, maintenance and repairs, but these details may vary from plan to plan.

How Much Do Hearing Aids Cost With Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield?

The level of hearing aid coverage can vary by Medicare Advantage plan, but it’s common for plans to cover a select portion of the cost and the beneficiary to pay a coinsurance or percentage of the covered amount.

Additionally, coverage may differ according to the type or brand of hearing aid being purchased. Depending on the type of Medicare Advantage plan you have, you may need to purchase your hearing aids from a participating provider to maximize your coverage.

Some Medicare Advantage plans may even offer a predetermined allowance to help pay for hearing aids.

How Else Can I Save Money on Hearing Aids?

Some Medicare Advantage plans may offer hearing aid discount programs. Depending on your specific plan, you may be eligible for discounts from hearing aid providers such as Beltone and TruHearing.

Does Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Cover Hearing Tests?

Many Medicare Advantage plans may include coverage of routine hearing tests and exams.

Medicare Part B (and all Medicare Advantage plans) provides coverage of diagnostic hearing exams if a doctor or other health care provider orders the test to determine if you need medical treatment. You may also visit an audiologist once every 12 months without a doctor’s order for non-acute hearing conditions and for diagnostic services related to hearing loss.  

Are Hearing Aids Tax Deductible?

Hearing aids may be tax deductible if you itemize your medical expenses and your medical expenses account for at least 7.5% of your adjusted income.

How Do I Find Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Hearing Providers Near Me?

You may locate Anthem hearing care and hearing aid providers near you online or by calling the phone number on your plan ID card and speaking to a company representative. 

How Do I Enroll in an Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Plan That Covers Hearing Aids?

Contact a licensed insurance agent to learn about Anthem plans available in your area. They can help you compare plans and enroll over the phone if you’re eligible.

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