Does Kaiser Permanente Cover Hearing Aids?

Yes - some Kaiser Permanente plans offer coverage for hearing aids, but this benefit is limited to certain individual and employer-sponsored plans. Kaiser Medicare Advantage (Medicare Part C) plans don't typically include hearing coverage. However, you may be able to add the Kaiser Advantage Plus program to your Kaiser Medicare plan for an extra monthly fee. It enables you to add on benefits including hearing, eyewear and dental.

Learn more about your Medicare Advantage plan options by requesting a free plan comparison or calling a licensed insurance agent to compare Kaiser Medicare plans available where you live.

What Hearing Aid Coverage Does Kaiser Permanente Offer?

Specific hearing aid coverage can vary between plans; your benefits may also change based on where you live. Kaiser Permanente plans with hearing coverage aren't available in all states. To find specific benefits, check the fine print in your quote.

Some of the hearing benefits that Kaiser Permanente may offer:

• Audiologic evaluation
  Some plans offer free or discounted hearing exams.
  
  
• Hearing aids
  If your plan has hearing aid coverage, it usually includes the device and standard accessories. Depending on the brand and price, you may be responsible for a co-pay.
  
  
• Evaluation period
  Your plan may allow you to try out a hearing aid for a few weeks before you commit.
  
  
• Follow-up care
  These appointments usually involve adjustments to hearing aids or reevaluation of your hearing needs.

As with most insurance plans, hearing aid coverage is usually limited to a specific dollar amount; you may also be covered for one pair of hearing aids for a set period of time. Coverage amounts vary widely.

For example, one Kaiser Permanente plan may offer free hearing exams but does not cover hearing aids. Another Kaiser plan may offer an allowance for new hearing aids every three years. 

How To Use Kaiser Permanente Hearing Aid Coverage

If your Kaiser Permanente plan covers hearing aids, you'll need to start with a hearing test. The company may require you to visit a Kaiser Permanente Hearing Center or an affiliated provider for the test.

After your initial hearing evaluation, you can expect a variation of the following process:

• Getting medical clearance from your primary physician.
  Typically, your doctor will verify that there are no other medical options to improve your hearing. 
  
  
• Meeting with an audiologist.
  During this appointment, the audiologist will determine which hearing aid style meets your needs.
  
  
• Fitting appointment
  After your hearing aids arrive, you'll meet with the audiologist again for fitting, programming and adjusting.
  
  
• Follow-up care
  This appointment happens a few weeks after you start wearing the hearing aids. It's an opportunity to ask questions, voice concerns and request any additional adjustments to improve your experience.

Does Kaiser Permanente Pay for Hearing Aids in My Area?

Kaiser Permanente plans are only available in the District of Columbia and eight states: California, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Maryland, Oregon, Virginia and Washington. The company's hearing care benefits aren't the same in every city and state.

What Kinds of Hearing Aids Does Kaiser Permanente Cover?

Covered brands and models depend on your Kaiser Permanente plan. Styles may include:

• In-ear
• In the ear canal
• Behind the ear
• On the body
• On the temple of your eyeglasses

In terms of brands and features, you may be limited by the terms of your plan. Check the benefits statement for details.