Lower Bucks Today

Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick and Debbie Dingell have introduced the bipartisan Medicare Hearing Aid Coverage Act. This legislation aims to expand Medicare coverage to include hearing aids, addressing a significant gap in healthcare coverage for seniors. The average cost of hearing aids exceeds $2,500, and the current exclusion by Medicare leaves many without access.

"Hearing loss is more than a medical condition—it’s a barrier to independence, communication, and dignity," said Fitzpatrick. He emphasized that millions of seniors face unnecessary isolation due to the lack of coverage. "With nearly 48 million Americans affected by hearing loss, the stakes are too high to ignore."

Dingell highlighted the importance of hearing aids for maintaining an independent lifestyle. "Hearing aids aren’t a luxury; they are critical for millions of people," she stated. She expressed her commitment to passing this legislation to ensure no one feels isolated due to an inability to afford hearing aids.

The National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare endorses the bill. Max Richtman, President & CEO of the organization, stated, "American seniors have been sorely lacking access to affordable hearing aids." He supports the act as it will make hearing aids more affordable and improve health outcomes for seniors.

Research indicates serious risks associated with untreated hearing loss among older adults, including increased hospitalization rates and cognitive impairment risks. A study in Baltimore linked severe hearing loss with higher dementia risk.

The proposed legislation also calls for a Government Accountability Office study on insurance programs related to hearing loss. The aim is to identify best practices for providing these services.

By expanding Medicare coverage for hearing aids, this act seeks to enhance access and quality of life for seniors across the nation.