Rep.s Cartwright, Katko Introduce Bill to Expand Medicare to Cover Hearing Benefits

Statement

Today, U.S. Representative Matt Cartwright (PA-08) and Republican U.S. Rep. John Katko (NY-24) introduced the Help Extend Auditory Relief (HEAR) Act to expand hearing benefits for seniors on Medicare.

Currently, Medicare Part B covers auditory examinations in the event of an accident or illness, but not routine checkups, which physicians recommend to address gradual loss of hearing. If prescribed a hearing device, the out-of-pocket expenses may be impossible to afford. Typical hearing aid models can cost over $1,000, with the most state-of-the-art devices topping $5,000. Individuals that need devices for both ears face double the cost.

Specifically, the HEAR Act would amend the Social Security Act to include Medicare coverage for hearing rehabilitation, including a comprehensive audiology assessment to determine if a hearing aid is appropriate. It would also extend Medicare Part B coverage to hearing aid devices.

"I'm proud to introduce another bill in Congress that is supported by Republicans and Democrats alike," said Rep. Cartwright. "Millions of older Americans experience some form of hearing loss. Undergoing examination and using hearing aids are simple ways to mitigate it, but those resources are outrageously expensive without insurance. Considering all the benefits beyond just improved hearing, we need to make sure our seniors have affordable access to these life-changing solutions. This is common-sense legislation to expand Medicare coverage to include audiology exams and hearing aids."

"With millions of seniors relying on Medicare as their primary source of healthcare, it is imperative Medicare recipients have access to the care and resources they need," said Rep. Katko. "I have spoken with countless seniors across Central New York who struggle to afford their hearing aids and exams due to the lack of Medicare coverage. For this reason, I am pleased to join Representative Cartwright in introducing the bipartisan HEAR Act. This important legislation requires Medicare to cover hearing aids and other related hearing services. After contributing to Medicare their entire lives, we must ensure seniors in our community have access to comprehensive healthcare that meets their individual needs."

According to the National Institute on Aging, about one-third of Americans between the ages of 65 and 74 experience hearing loss, and nearly 50 percent of those over 75 have difficulty hearing. People with untreated hearing loss are more likely to report depression, anxiety, anger and frustration, and emotional instability and paranoia, and are less likely to participate in organized social activities than those who wear hearing aids. The degree of depression and other emotional or mental health issues increase with the severity of an individual's auditory impairment.

Hearing aids can also help improve emotional and mental health by giving people the confidence to join social groups and strengthen relationships at home. Studies show that hearing aid users are not just happier with their social life, they are more productive in the workplace, earning $44,000 more during their remaining working years.

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