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Lance Nelson, AuD, CCC-A
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Nov 14, 2023
Hearing plays an indispensable role in our daily lives, enhancing our connection with loved ones and the world around us.
Yet a staggering number of individuals diagnosed with hearing loss don't leverage the benefits of hearing aids. This is primarily due to concerns about cost and ambiguity over insurance coverage for hearing devices.
Aetna's Medicare Plans and Hearing Aid Coverage
For many, Medicare becomes relevant when discussing insurance coverage for hearing aids, especially since about a third of US residents aged 65 to 74, and nearly half over 75, face hearing challenges. However, original Medicare doesn't cover hearing aids, that's where Aetna's supplemental plans come into play.
Medicare Advantage (HMO and HMO-POS): These plans predominantly operate within a health maintenance organization (HMO). Members are encouraged to use a network of providers, and stepping outside of these confines can limit benefits. Fortunately, Aetna's HMO-POS is more flexible, even offering some options that do away with referrals. Both plans extend varying degrees of hearing care coverage.
Medicare Advantage (PPO): Operating as a preferred provider organization (PPO) package, this plan offers more freedom, eliminating the need for referrals or sticking strictly within the network. It also provides diverse hearing care coverage options.
Medicare Advantage Dual Special Needs (DSNP): Tailored for individuals meeting specific low-income benchmarks, this HMO-style plan blends prescription and medical benefits and covers varying extents of hearing healthcare.
Hearing Care for Non-Medicare Patients With Aetna
While a significant portion of hearing aid users are Medicare-eligible, there's a segment that isn't.
Aetna also offers various coverage options, with riders for adults, embracing different co-payment, deductible, and coinsurance configurations.
Additionally, members can avail themselves of discounts and specialized programs, both within and outside Aetna's network.
How Nelson Audiology Can Support Your Hearing Care Journey
Understanding the maze of insurance policies, especially when it pertains to hearing care, can be daunting. At Nelson Audiology, our mission is to simplify this for you.
Whether you're keen on identifying if your Aetna plan covers hearing tests, top-tier technology, or comprehensive hearing care, our team at Nelson Audiology is here to guide you. We'll help you understand Aetna's co-payments, deductibles, coinsurance levels, and any applicable PPO network restrictions or discounts.
For Ojai and Ventura residents, regardless of how well acquainted you are with your Aetna coverage, our recommendation is simple. Use Nelson Audiology's online insurance coverage form. This tool will provide clarity on the nuances of your Aetna plan concerning hearing aid coverage.
Nelson Audiology remains committed to the Ojai and Ventura communities, offering a suite of services spanning hearing assessments, balance checks, and cutting-edge hearing technology solutions. If you're grappling with hearing loss or have questions about insurance, get in touch with us. We're here to help you navigate the world of hearing with ease.
Understanding the realm of insurance can often feel like deciphering a foreign language. This is especially true when it concerns essential healthcare needs like hearing care.
At Nelson Audiology, we believe that everyone deserves the right to clear, comprehensive hearing, and financial barriers or insurance complexities shouldn't stand in the way.
Our dedicated team continuously updates its knowledge about various insurance plans, especially prominent ones like Aetna, ensuring that our patients receive the maximum benefits they're entitled to.
If you've ever hesitated to seek treatment for hearing issues due to worries about costs or coverage, let us assist you. With our expertise and commitment, we aim to make hearing care accessible and understandable for everyone in the Ojai and Ventura communities.
