By: Suzanne Yoder, AuD
Doctor of Audiology
Professional Advisor for Healthbridge.info
In the state of Pennsylvania, Medical Assistance (MA), also known as Medicaid, covers hearing aid for children that have a diagnosed hearing loss under the age of 21. Additionally, MA will cover the cost of earmolds, hearing aid batteries, hearing aid repair services and the professional service of testing, programming and modifying hearing aids for children.
Prior to applying for hearing aid benefits, children must receive a diagnosis and medical clearance. Therefore, the first step is to see both an audiologist and an otolaryngologist/otologist. The diagnosis and script for hearing aids is needed for MA to pay for hearing aids. The script needs to be signed by the medical provider and should say hearing aids (for one or both ears). This needs to be on record along with a hearing test within 6 months for MA to pay for hearing aids.
Before obtaining hearing aids, a policy needs to be set up under “Special Medical Assistance” conditions. This policy is set up in the child’s name and is separate from the family’s other insurances. It is not income based; it is based off the medical condition. The family will need to contact the state in order to start that process. Here’s the website link to learn about it: https://www.dhs.pa.gov/Services/Assistance/Pages/MA-General-Eligibility.aspx
HealthBridges.info does not provide any legal advice or detailed guidance on insurance policies. Please speak to the state directly with question you have. Here is the website link:
https://www.dhs.pa.gov/Services/Assistance/Pages/Apply-for-Benefits.aspx