Dingell and Fitzpatrick push to eliminate barriers to hearing health care for seniors through landmark legislation.
Medicare Coverage for Hearing Aids: A Step Toward Accessible Healthcare
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) have reintroduced the Medicare Hearing Aid Coverage Act, a bipartisan initiative aimed at expanding Medicare benefits to include hearing aids. Currently excluded from Medicare coverage, hearing aids cost an average of $2,500 per device, leaving many seniors without access to these critical tools.
“Hearing aids aren’t a luxury; they’re essential for maintaining independence and social connections,” said Dingell. “This legislation ensures more people can live with dignity and avoid isolation simply because they can’t afford hearing aids.”
“Hearing loss isn’t just a medical issue—it’s a barrier to communication and dignity,” added Fitzpatrick. “Medicare’s outdated prohibition has caused millions to endure isolation unnecessarily. This bill takes a decisive step toward ensuring seniors have the care they need.”
The High Stakes of Untreated Hearing Loss
Hearing loss affects nearly 48 million Americans, with untreated conditions significantly impacting health and quality of life. Research reveals that older adults with hearing loss are:
- 32% more likely to require hospitalization.
- 24% more at risk for cognitive decline.
- At increased risk for isolation, depression, and dementia.
A decade-long study in Baltimore further found that the likelihood of dementia increases with the severity of hearing loss. Expanding Medicare coverage for hearing aids could mitigate these risks and help millions of seniors maintain a better quality of life.
A Bipartisan Push for Medicare Reform
The Medicare Coverage for Hearing Aids Act has garnered wide bipartisan support, with cosponsors including Representatives Adam Smith (D-WA), Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), and Rashida Tlaib (D-MI). The bill is also endorsed by the National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare, which has long advocated for affordable hearing health care.
“Access to hearing aids is crucial to good health,” said Max Richtman, President of the National Committee. “This legislation ensures affordability and improves health outcomes for millions of seniors. It’s long overdue, and we’re thrilled to see bipartisan support for this critical issue.”
A Legacy of Advocacy
Dingell has prioritized hearing health reform since first introducing similar legislation in 2015. The latest bill includes a directive for the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to evaluate insurance programs that provide hearing-related services.
“This is about keeping seniors connected, independent, and safe,” Dingell said. “Medicare coverage for hearing aids can improve lives and health outcomes on a national scale.”
Why This Legislation Matters
The reintroduction of the Medicare Coverage for Hearing Aids Act reflects the growing recognition of hearing health as essential to overall well-being. It also highlights the urgency of addressing the financial barriers faced by seniors in need of hearing aids.
“Nearly every senior will experience some degree of hearing loss,” Fitzpatrick noted. “It’s time Medicare caught up to this reality.”
The reintroduction of the Medicare Hearing Aid Coverage Act comes as policymakers increasingly focus on reducing healthcare inequities for seniors. If passed, the legislation could offer a lifeline to millions of Americans currently unable to afford hearing aids, helping them maintain independence, reduce health risks, and stay connected to their communities.
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