Maintaining healthy hearing is integral to overall well-being, potentially mitigating the risk of cognitive decline as individuals’ age, including the onset of dementia. Despite this, research indicates that less than 30% of adults aged 70 and older with age-related hearing loss—clinically termed presbycusis—have ever utilized hearing aids, even though they could significantly benefit from them.

Hearing loss remains significantly undertreated, with cost often cited as a primary deterrent to seeking a hearing evaluation. The expenses associated with hearing aids can be substantial, often amounting to thousands of dollars. Compounding the issue, hearing aids are typically not covered by Medicare or most private insurance plans, further limiting accessibility for those in need.

What factors contribute to the high cost of hearing aids? Explore the components that make up the price tag of hearing aids, along with strategies to make them more budget-friendly.

Cost of Hearing Aids

On average, a single hearing aid typically costs around $2,000, and many individuals require one for each ear. Audiologists typically purchase hearing aids from manufacturers at wholesale prices and then establish their own retail prices. Depending on the level of technology incorporated into the hearing aids, individuals should expect to spend between $4,000 and $8,000 for a pair. While this fee may initially seem substantial, understanding the components contributing to the price tag can provide context and justify the investment.

Today, audiologists offer a wide array of hearing aid types, each with distinct advantages and disadvantages tailored to individuals’ specific hearing health requirements. Consequently, the prices of these hearing aids can vary significantly.

In-the-Ear

In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids are generally recommended for individuals with mild to severe hearing loss. These devices, as their name implies, are designed to fit entirely within the outer part of the ear, with all components housed in a hard plastic case. One popular customized ITE hearing aid, the ReSound LiNX Quattro (MIH), is priced at $3,167 for a single aid.

Behind-the-Ear

Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids are commonly employed by individuals with mild to profound hearing loss. In these devices, all components are housed in a plastic case positioned behind the ear, which is connected to a disposable plastic ear tip or custom earmold delivering sound through a clear tubing. Leading BTE hearing aids, such as the Widex Moment and Oticon More, are priced between $2,698 and $3,247 per aid.

In-the-Canal

In-the-canal (ITC) hearing aids, suitable for individuals with mild to severe hearing loss, are custom-made to fit inside the ear canal and extend into some of the outer part of the ear. All components are housed within a lightweight plastic shell. Starkey offers a range of ITC hearing aids, with prices varying from $2,500 to $4,900 per aid.

Receiver-in-Canal

Receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing aids, tailored for individuals with mild to severe hearing loss, utilize a small speaker placed inside the ear canal via a discreet plastic-encased speaker wire. One well-known RIC hearing aid, the Signia Styletto X, is priced at $2,466 per aid.

Completely-in-Canal

Completely-in-canal (CIC) hearing aids are customized to fit entirely inside the ear canal, offering a smaller and less visible option compared to ITC hearing aids. They are primarily intended to assist individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss. The Phonak Virto M-Titanium, a popular CIC hearing aid, can range in price from $1,500 to $4,000 per aid, depending on the selected customizations and bundled services.

Invisible-in-Canal

Invisible-in-canal (IIC) hearing aids, the smallest available, resemble CIC aids in their deep placement within the ear canal. The Starkey Picasso, a sought-after IIC hearing aid, ranges in price from $1,500 to $3,100 per aid, contingent upon chosen customizations and bundled services.

What does the price cover?

Hearing aids are commonly sold in bundles that encompass professional services, meaning all components are included in the overall price. The quoted price incorporates the retail cost of the hearing aids along with the necessary professional audiology services for fitting and programming the devices, as well as repairing and maintaining them for a specified period, typically two to four years. In certain instances, initial diagnostic testing may be offered free of charge or included in the bundled price.

Under the bundled service model, patients have the flexibility to schedule follow-up visits with their audiologist as needed to fine-tune the hearing aids, adjust the fit, and address maintenance or repair issues, all at no additional cost. However, it’s important to note that some providers may impose limits on the number of appointments allowed within a given time period.

Another option for purchasing hearing aids is the unbundled model, which does not include professional services. This approach is gaining traction, particularly in light of proposed regulations from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) concerning over-the-counter hearing aids and potential expansions of Medicare coverage to include hearing aids and related services. With the unbundled model, individuals purchase the hearing aids separately from any associated services.

In the unbundled model, the price may include one or two follow-up office visits initially, after which patients are responsible for covering the cost of each audiology office visit out of pocket. As a result, while the unbundled service model may involve lower upfront costs, depending on the number of follow-up visits required, patients may ultimately end up paying a comparable amount to the bundled service model.

The cost of hearing aids for consumers is influenced by numerous variables, making it a complex matter to navigate. These factors include the extent and quality of provider services offered to the consumer, the wholesale price negotiated by the provider, whether the manufacturer owns clinics, payer sources and their impact on pricing, as well as various delivery models employed within the industry.

In scenarios where consumers purchase hearing aids from independent hearing aid or audiology practices operating on an unbundled model, or through third-party networks or certain Big Box retailers, provider services typically constitute 30% to 40% of the total cost. However, in cases of bundled hearing aid delivery, provider services may account for a larger percentage of the total cost.

The foundation of addressing hearing loss begins with an audiogram, a hearing test conducted by a licensed audiologist. A diagnostic audiogram, often covered by private health insurance (though individual policies may vary), serves to assess whether hearing loss is age-related or caused by a medical condition necessitating additional follow-up care and treatment.

Hearing Aid Fit

Part of the bundled service model is the fitting process, which entails physically adjusting a hearing device or its components to fit the patient’s ear. Depending on the chosen hearing device, this process may require the creation of a physical mold of the patient’s ear for optimal fit and comfort.

In addition to physically adjusting the device to fit the patient’s ear, a fitting involves importing the results of the audiogram into the device’s software and programming the hearing aid to accommodate the patient’s unique hearing ability and the specific acoustics of their ears. Since every patient’s ear and sound tolerance are different, programming hearing aids is a meticulous process involving verification and validation. This includes measuring the sound amplified by the hearing aid before it reaches the ear canal and quantifying the number of decibels that patients hear.

some patients may need time to adjust and build up tolerance to wearing a hearing aid. The fit and comfort level on the first day may differ from that experienced one month later. Audiologists often provide ongoing support and adjustments to ensure that the hearing aids continue to fit comfortably and effectively as the patient adapts to wearing them.

Be prepared for testing your hearing aids in real-world scenarios and to anticipate visiting your audiologist multiple times until you can effectively hear in various environments, such as noisy restaurants when dining with friends. Sometimes, it may require two or three follow-up appointments for troubleshooting to fine-tune the sound and ensure optimal performance of the hearing aids.

Device Types

At the upper end of the price spectrum, approximately $3,000 per hearing aid for bundled services, advanced hearing aids offer Bluetooth connectivity to smartphones. This feature enables users to connect seamlessly to their phones, FaceTime, Skype, Zoom, and other conference calls, as well as streaming platforms like Netflix and music apps. Additionally, premium hearing aids may incorporate machine learning or artificial intelligence, purportedly enhancing sound quality in various environments, delivering clearer and crisper sound.

Additionally, premium hearing aids may boast a smaller and more discreet design compared to lower-end models. For instance, Starkey’s Invisible (IIC) model sits deep in the second bend of the ear canal, rendering it practically invisible. These smaller devices are custom-made to fit the unique specifications of each patient’s ear canal. Furthermore, premium hearing aids often come equipped with rechargeable batteries, offering up to 30 hours of continuous use before needing to be recharged, typically done overnight for convenience.

At the lower end of the price range, hearing aids available at introductory price points typically range from $1,000 to $1,700 per hearing aid. These devices often feature simpler technology with fewer algorithms and channels for controlling and amplifying sound, as well as responding to noisy environments. While they may be more affordable, they are also easier to learn how to use and may adequately meet your listening needs.

Meanwhile, big-box retailers such as Costco provide particularly affordable options for hearing aids. Premium models can be priced as low as $700 per ear at these stores.

Warranty

Bundled prices for hearing aids typically include a one- to three-year warranty provided by the manufacturer, covering the cost of repairs. Full replacements are usually available at a specified rate per device, and this replacement option is generally limited to one occurrence at the designated rate. It’s important to note that hearing aids, like any machine, can experience wear and tear, especially if used continuously throughout waking hours, as is often recommended.

Once the standard warranty coverage ends, extending it can be an option, although it may come at a significant cost. Alternatively, if an issue arises after the standard warranty period expires, individuals have the option to pay for repairs, which typically come with a new warranty upon completion of the repair service.

Other Services

Hearing aids are susceptible to moisture and wax buildup over time, which can affect their performance. Audiologists offer professional cleanings using specialized tools such as supersonic cleaners and vacuums to ensure thorough maintenance. Additionally, bundled service packages typically include professional maintenance checkups every six months to keep the hearing aids running smoothly and address any potential issues promptly.

Why are hearings aids expensive?

Several factors contribute to the high cost of hearing aids. Hearing aid manufacturers invest heavily in research and development to introduce new features and advancements, which increases production costs. The complexities surrounding hearing, hearing loss, speech recognition, and the brain’s interpretation and processing of sound are extensive and intricate. Ongoing research aims to enhance these small yet powerful medical devices, making strides to mimic natural hearing as closely as possible.

Manufacturers often set high wholesale prices for hearing aids, leading to significant markups when sold to consumers through audiology practices or retailers. Bundled services, including professional fitting, maintenance, and warranties, contribute to the overall cost of hearing aids, making the devices themselves appear inflated in price. Many insurance plans, including Medicare, provide limited coverage for hearing aids, leaving individuals to bear the full cost out-of-pocket in many cases. These factors collectively contribute to the high cost burden associated with acquiring hearing aids.

How to cut costs on hearing aids?

The best hearing aids for you are those that come with appropriate hearing health support at a price that aligns with your budget. While discount options may sometimes limit the services available from an audiologist for your chosen hearing aids or restrict warranty options, there are several strategies to save on this essential health expense.

Consider the following strategies to save on hearing aid expenses:

1. Inquire with your hearing health provider about unbundling their services, allowing you to pay for only the specific services you require.

2. Utilize your health savings account (HSA) or flexible savings account (FSA) to cover the cost of hearing aids with pre-tax income.

3. Explore hearing aid options offered by local wholesale clubs such as Costco, which often provide discounted prices compared to other retailers and audiology offices.

4. Choose a more basic hearing aid model with fewer advanced technology features, which typically come with a lower price tag.

5. Explore Medicare Part C plans as they may offer partial coverage for hearing aid costs, providing potential savings.

6. Keep an eye on over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids. The FDA’s establishment of a new OTC hearing aids category, expected to take effect in mid-October, may offer more affordable and accessible options compared to traditional FDA-approved hearing aids on the market.

Why do you need to buy hearing aids?

According to the Hearing Loss Association of America, just one in five individuals who could benefit from a hearing aid actually utilizes one. However, hearing health is an essential aspect of overall well-being. Left untreated, hearing loss can exacerbate cognitive decline and contribute to social isolation, ultimately increasing the risk of dementia over time. Integrating hearing aids into your wellness plan is a straightforward way to mitigate these risks and maintain a balanced, fulfilling life.