Are you overspending on hearing aids?
- Replies 5
Hearing loss is a prevalent issue in Australia*, with one in six Australians currently affected—a figure projected to double by 2060. This increase is likely attributed to an ageing population and the growing exposure to excessive noise.
Despite the widespread nature of hearing impairment, many Australians are not taking full advantage of hearing aids*, with only one in five people who could benefit from them actually using one. This underutilisation could stem from the high costs associated with hearing aids and confusion about funding.
The cost of hearing aids can be a significant barrier for many, so it is crucial to understand how private health insurance, Medicare, and other government rebates can help cover these costs.
Private Health Insurance & Medicare: What's Covered?
Both private health insurance (depending on your policy and cover) and Medicare offer some level of coverage for hearing-related costs, including hearing aids, assistive listening devices, and audiology appointments*. However, Medicare's coverage is limited and typically does not extend to routine hearing tests or hearing aids for the general population, except under certain financial circumstances.
The Hearing Services Program
The Hearing Services Program fully subsidises some hearing devices, so there is no cost to you, and partially subsidises others, with you paying the gap.
Voucher scheme eligibility
According to the Hearing Services Program, you are eligible for the voucher scheme if you are an Australian citizen or permanent resident or live on Norfolk Island, are aged 21 years or older, and are:
Private Health Insurance
Private health insurance may provide more comprehensive coverage, but it often depends on the level of extras included in your policy. Higher-tier policies with premium extras are more likely to cover hearing aids*, offering either a set cost or a cashback rebate. The amount you can claim varies significantly between different health funds and policies. Of course, this comes with its own associated fees.
When it comes to audiology appointments*, insurance policies may cover a portion of the cost, with initial consultations often receiving higher benefits due to their diagnostic nature.
The landscape of hearing aid coverage* is complex, with significant differences between health funds and across various states and territories. It's essential to understand your eligibility for rebates* and to compare the benefits offered by different funds to ensure you’re getting the best value for money.
We highly recommend speaking to an audiologist* and going for a hearing test*.
It’s easy to get your hearing checked; simply fill in this appointment form*, and you will be matched with a specialist to conduct your hearing test for free*.
While hearing aids are a vital tool for many Australians, we understand the costs can be prohibitive. Getting the right treatment and help can feel daunting* but it is a great step towards a happier, less stressful, and more connected life.
How to book a hearing test*
You can find an experienced audiologist to conduct your free hearing test* – who is knowledgeable about government, DVA and Pensioner subsidies – by clicking here*.
You’ll need to answer a few quick questions about your hearing*, as well as enter your postcode. This ensures you are matched with a specialist in your area.
Click here to book your free hearing test now*.
Members, it’s important to note that this article should not be taken as medical or financial advice. Be sure to consider the advice of a professional before making any decisions.
Are you a part of the Hearing Services Program, or does your private health insurance help cover the cost of your hearing aids? If you have experiences or tips to share about navigating hearing aid coverage, we’d love to hear from you in the comments below.
*Please note, members, that this is a sponsored article. All content of ours that has an asterisk next to it means we may get a commission to write an article or post a deal. We do this to assist with the costs of running the SDC. Thank you!
Despite the widespread nature of hearing impairment, many Australians are not taking full advantage of hearing aids*, with only one in five people who could benefit from them actually using one. This underutilisation could stem from the high costs associated with hearing aids and confusion about funding.
The cost of hearing aids can be a significant barrier for many, so it is crucial to understand how private health insurance, Medicare, and other government rebates can help cover these costs.
Are you eligible for subsidised hearing aids? Image Credit: Shutterstock
Private Health Insurance & Medicare: What's Covered?
Both private health insurance (depending on your policy and cover) and Medicare offer some level of coverage for hearing-related costs, including hearing aids, assistive listening devices, and audiology appointments*. However, Medicare's coverage is limited and typically does not extend to routine hearing tests or hearing aids for the general population, except under certain financial circumstances.
The Hearing Services Program
The Hearing Services Program fully subsidises some hearing devices, so there is no cost to you, and partially subsidises others, with you paying the gap.
Voucher scheme eligibility
According to the Hearing Services Program, you are eligible for the voucher scheme if you are an Australian citizen or permanent resident or live on Norfolk Island, are aged 21 years or older, and are:
- a pensioner concession card holder or their spouse
- a Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) Gold Card holder or their spouse
- a DVA White Card holder (hearing-specific conditions) or their spouse
- a member of the Australian Defence Force, including the:
- Permanent Navy
- Regular Army
- Permanent Air Force
- Reserves in continuous full-time service
- referred by a Disability Employment Service.
Private Health Insurance
Private health insurance may provide more comprehensive coverage, but it often depends on the level of extras included in your policy. Higher-tier policies with premium extras are more likely to cover hearing aids*, offering either a set cost or a cashback rebate. The amount you can claim varies significantly between different health funds and policies. Of course, this comes with its own associated fees.
When it comes to audiology appointments*, insurance policies may cover a portion of the cost, with initial consultations often receiving higher benefits due to their diagnostic nature.
We highly recommend speaking to an audiologist* and going for a hearing test*.
It’s easy to get your hearing checked; simply fill in this appointment form*, and you will be matched with a specialist to conduct your hearing test for free*.
While hearing aids are a vital tool for many Australians, we understand the costs can be prohibitive. Getting the right treatment and help can feel daunting* but it is a great step towards a happier, less stressful, and more connected life.
How to book a hearing test*
You can find an experienced audiologist to conduct your free hearing test* – who is knowledgeable about government, DVA and Pensioner subsidies – by clicking here*.
You’ll need to answer a few quick questions about your hearing*, as well as enter your postcode. This ensures you are matched with a specialist in your area.
Click here to book your free hearing test now*.
Members, it’s important to note that this article should not be taken as medical or financial advice. Be sure to consider the advice of a professional before making any decisions.
Are you a part of the Hearing Services Program, or does your private health insurance help cover the cost of your hearing aids? If you have experiences or tips to share about navigating hearing aid coverage, we’d love to hear from you in the comments below.
*Please note, members, that this is a sponsored article. All content of ours that has an asterisk next to it means we may get a commission to write an article or post a deal. We do this to assist with the costs of running the SDC. Thank you!
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