Learn About Medicaid Services for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing

Under the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnosis and Treatment (EPSDT) component, the national Medicaid program requires all state Medicaid agencies to provide certain hearing-related coverage for Medicaid beneficiaries younger than 21 years old. This EPSDT-mandated coverage for children at risk of hearing impairment includes audiological assessments, hearing aid evaluation and medically necessary hearing aids and related services and accessories. 

Although federal Medicaid rules do not require individual states to cover hearing products and services for adult beneficiaries who are deaf or hard of hearing, many states choose to provide some form of coverage. In states that do provide hearing coverage for adults, certain limitations generally apply. At minimum, any services must be deemed medically necessary and prescribed by a physician or licensed practitioner.

Some states have very specific rules and guidelines, including:

• A minimum extent of hearing loss to qualify for coverage eligibility.
• Prior authorization for hearing aid purchases and repairs.
• Limited options for hearing aid products.
• Annual limits on covered products or services, such as hearing aid evaluations or batteries.
• Warranty-related rules and restrictions.
• A limited range of acceptable hearing aid vendors.

Other restrictions may apply. Below is a list of U.S. states and some of the hearing aid products and related services that each state currently covers for Medicaid beneficiaries. The services listed are not exhaustive, and states often change their Medicaid benefits, so interested candidates may wish to check with the state Medicaid agency.