If you have been thinking about buying new hearing aids this year, there have been some important changes that may impact your decision making. The Minnesota Legislature changed the statute addressing hearing aid coverage by Minnesota health insurance plans. This change went into effect on July 1, 2023, and requires plans to cover hearing aids for all ages (not just children under age 18). Insurance plans also cannot limit the amount they will pay for hearing aids unless the limit is the same for other services covered under the plan. 

If you have mild hearing loss, over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids might be a good solution for you. These hearing aids are available from pharmacies, electronics retailers and online retailers, among others. Even though you don't need a hearing test to buy OTC hearing aids, getting a hearing test from an audiologist may help you find the best hearing aids for your needs. Check with your insurance company about whether a hearing test is covered under your plan and whether you need a referral to see an audiologist. You may also ask if your insurance covers OTC hearing aids. 

You can use funds from your flexible spending accounts (FSA) or health savings accounts (HSA) to pay for OTC hearing aids or any co-payment for prescription hearing aids. If you have questions about hearing aid coverage or getting hearing aids, call the customer service phone number on your medical insurance card. 

The Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services Division has several guides to hearing aids that may be useful to you: 

• Getting hearing aids 
• Hearing aid insurance appeals 
• Over-the-counter hearing aids 

If you have other questions about hearing aids, please contact us!