Does AARP Medicare Complete Cover Hearing Aids? Understanding Your Coverage
Does AARP Medicare Complete Cover Hearing Aids? The answer is nuanced. While original Medicare typically doesn’t cover routine hearing exams or hearing aids, some AARP Medicare Complete plans do offer coverage or assistance toward these services and devices.
What are AARP Medicare Complete Plans?
AARP Medicare Complete is a brand name for Medicare Advantage plans offered by UnitedHealthcare. These plans are alternatives to Original Medicare (Part A and Part B). They combine hospital, medical, and sometimes prescription drug coverage into one plan. Many AARP Medicare Complete plans offer extra benefits not covered by Original Medicare, such as dental, vision, and hearing care. It’s crucial to understand that does AARP Medicare Complete cover hearing aids depends on the specific plan.
The Basic Limitations of Original Medicare Regarding Hearing Aids
Original Medicare (Parts A and B) provides limited coverage for hearing-related services. Generally, it does not cover:
- Routine hearing exams for fitting hearing aids.
- Hearing aids themselves.
- Costs associated with fitting and adjustments of hearing aids.
Original Medicare will cover diagnostic hearing exams when ordered by a physician to determine if medical treatment is needed. For example, if you’re experiencing sudden hearing loss, a doctor might order tests to rule out a medical condition.
Hearing Aid Coverage Under AARP Medicare Complete: What to Expect
The coverage for hearing aids varies significantly among AARP Medicare Complete plans. Here’s what to consider:
- Hearing Exams: Some plans offer coverage for routine hearing exams, often including an allowance for a specific number of exams per year.
- Hearing Aid Allowance: Certain plans provide a monetary allowance toward the purchase of hearing aids from approved providers. The allowance amount differs by plan.
- Preferred Providers: Often, AARP Medicare Complete plans have a network of preferred hearing care providers. Using these providers may result in lower out-of-pocket costs.
- Coverage Limits: Be aware of any limitations, such as maximum coverage amounts, frequency of replacement, and specific types of hearing aids covered.
Understanding Your AARP Medicare Complete Plan Documents
The best way to determine does AARP Medicare Complete cover hearing aids under your specific plan is to carefully review your plan documents. These documents include:
- Summary of Benefits: This document provides a high-level overview of your plan’s coverage.
- Evidence of Coverage: This is a comprehensive document outlining the details of your plan, including coverage for hearing services and hearing aids.
- Provider Directory: This lists the doctors and specialists within your plan’s network, including hearing care professionals.
If you have any questions after reviewing these documents, contact AARP Medicare Complete directly.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Accessing Hearing Aid Benefits with AARP Medicare Complete
If your AARP Medicare Complete plan offers hearing aid benefits, here’s a general process to follow:
- Review your plan documents: Understand your plan’s specific coverage, limitations, and preferred providers.
- Schedule a hearing exam: Contact a hearing care professional within your plan’s network, if applicable, to schedule a hearing exam.
- Obtain a prescription (if required): Some plans may require a prescription from a physician before you can purchase hearing aids.
- Choose your hearing aids: Work with your hearing care professional to select the hearing aids that best meet your needs and budget, taking into account your plan’s coverage.
- Submit your claim: Follow your plan’s instructions for submitting claims for reimbursement. This may involve submitting receipts and other documentation.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Seeking Hearing Aid Coverage
- Assuming all AARP Medicare Complete plans offer the same coverage: Coverage varies significantly from plan to plan.
- Failing to use in-network providers (if required): Using out-of-network providers may result in higher out-of-pocket costs or no coverage at all.
- Not reviewing plan documents carefully: Missing important details about coverage limitations, deductibles, and copays.
- Delaying seeking hearing care: Addressing hearing loss promptly can improve communication and quality of life.
Comparing AARP Medicare Complete Plans: Hearing Aid Coverage Considerations
Here’s a sample comparison table to illustrate how hearing aid coverage can differ between various AARP Medicare Complete plans (actual benefits may vary depending on the specific plan and location):
| Plan Name | Hearing Exam Coverage | Hearing Aid Allowance | In-Network Only? |
|---|---|---|---|
| AARP Medicare Complete Plan A | $0 copay, 1 per year | $1,000 per ear | Yes |
| AARP Medicare Complete Plan B | $25 copay, 1 per year | $500 combined | No |
| AARP Medicare Complete Plan C | Not covered | None | N/A |
This table is for illustrative purposes only. Always refer to your specific plan documents for accurate coverage information. Understanding if does AARP Medicare Complete cover hearing aids requires careful review of your specific plan benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is there a deductible for hearing aid coverage with AARP Medicare Complete?
The deductible for hearing aid coverage, if any, depends entirely on the specific AARP Medicare Complete plan. Some plans may have a separate deductible for hearing benefits, while others may apply the general medical deductible. Review your plan documents for details.
What types of hearing aids are typically covered by AARP Medicare Complete?
Coverage for hearing aid types varies by plan. Most plans that offer a hearing aid allowance do not restrict coverage to specific types of hearing aids. However, some plans may have limits on the technology level or features covered.
How often can I replace my hearing aids under an AARP Medicare Complete plan?
The frequency with which you can replace your hearing aids under an AARP Medicare Complete plan depends on the plan’s rules. Many plans allow replacement every three to five years, assuming there is a documented change in hearing.
What if I need hearing aids that cost more than my AARP Medicare Complete allowance?
If the cost of your hearing aids exceeds your plan’s allowance, you will be responsible for paying the difference out-of-pocket. Discuss payment options with your hearing care provider.
Can I go to any audiologist if my AARP Medicare Complete plan offers hearing aid coverage?
Whether you can go to any audiologist depends on your plan’s network restrictions. Many plans require you to use in-network providers to receive full coverage. Out-of-network care may be subject to higher costs or no coverage.
What documentation do I need to submit a claim for hearing aid reimbursement with AARP Medicare Complete?
Typically, you will need to submit a copy of your hearing exam results, a prescription (if required), and an itemized receipt from the hearing aid provider. Your plan documents will outline the specific requirements.
Does AARP itself offer any direct assistance with hearing aid costs, separate from the AARP Medicare Complete plans?
AARP partners with UnitedHealthcare to offer AARP Medicare Complete plans. While AARP doesn’t directly provide financial assistance for hearing aids, the benefits offered through these plans can help reduce costs. Consult your plan options to find the coverage that best meets your needs.
What should I do if my AARP Medicare Complete claim for hearing aids is denied?
If your claim is denied, carefully review the explanation of benefits to understand the reason for the denial. You have the right to appeal the decision. Follow the appeal process outlined in your plan documents.
How can I find out which AARP Medicare Complete plans are available in my area?
You can find available AARP Medicare Complete plans in your area by visiting the UnitedHealthcare website, calling their customer service line, or using the Medicare plan finder tool on the Medicare.gov website.
What is the difference between a hearing aid allowance and a hearing aid discount through AARP Medicare Complete?
A hearing aid allowance provides a specific dollar amount toward the purchase of hearing aids. A hearing aid discount offers a percentage reduction off the retail price. Both can help reduce costs, but the better option depends on the price of the hearing aids.
If I move to a different state, will my AARP Medicare Complete plan’s hearing aid coverage remain the same?
Moving to a different state may require you to enroll in a new AARP Medicare Complete plan. Coverage for hearing aids may vary depending on the available plans in your new location. Contact AARP Medicare Complete to confirm your coverage.
Does AARP Medicare Complete cover hearing aid repairs or batteries?
Some AARP Medicare Complete plans may offer coverage for hearing aid repairs or batteries, but this is not a standard benefit. Review your plan documents to see if these services are covered. You might also want to consider if does AARP Medicare Complete cover hearing aids in the long term with included repair and battery coverage to maximize your benefit.