Does Your Benefits Plan Cover Hearing Aids?
An estimated 8.2 million Canadians aged 40 to 79 have at least a mild hearing loss, but unfortunately, many of these people live without getting the hearing treatment they need. One of the reasons for delaying treatment is the price of the hearing aid.
Hearing aid prices range from $995 to $4,000 per ear. This leaves many people wondering how to afford hearing aids and what options are available to them.
It is important to note that hearing is essential, and that hearing healthcare is an essential service. There is a strong connection between hearing health and overall well-being, with hearing loss linked to depression and social isolation.
So, even though the initial price may make you wonder if hearing aids are necessary, the cost of living with hearing loss is too great to not explore affordable hearing aid options.
Here is some information on hearing aid funding options that may be available to you.
Check Your Health Benefits Plan.
If you have it, consult your private insurance for information on hearing aid coverage. Coverage can vary depending on your provider. You may even have coverage without realizing it. The ARTA Retiree Benefits Plan offers hearing aid coverage and dependant on which plan you are enrolled in, you would be covered for up to $900 or $1,100 every thirty-six consecutive months.
Public Health Insurance
Alberta Aids to Daily Living (AADL) is a program provided by the government of Alberta to help fund the cost of hearing aids for Albertans. If you have a documented hearing loss, you may be eligible for funding once every five years for one or two hearing aids, depending on your income level.
HearingLife has you covered: Hearing aid benefits for ARTA Members.
HearingLife offers ARTA members exclusive discounts on hearing aids throughout the year. ARTA members can receive 10% off hearing aids, and this can be applied to any additional discount price HearingLife may offer.
Look out for “buy one, get one ½ price” offers, or popular 25% off discounts on select hearing aids.
HearingLife also offers 1 to 5-year financing options through their low-interest financing program.
Professional service and hearing professional consultation
One-on-one consultations with your hearing professional is part of the package.
When purchasing hearing aids from a hearing healthcare clinic, you are also paying for the knowledge and expertise of an educated and highly-trained professional who will advise you appropriately on your hearing needs. They will ensure you are receiving the proper care and benefit from your hearing aids.
Hearing aids are unlike prescription glasses, for example. Prescription glasses may require an initial adjustment, although most often do not need further adjustment until the prescription changes. People often adjust to new glasses in a few hours to days with little to no trouble.
Most notably, people typically seek professional advice as soon as they start having vision issues. Whereas according to the Center for Hearing and Communication, people typically wait up to seven years before seeking professional advice for their hearing.
Purchasing hearing aids is an important investment in your quality of life, relationships and overall health.
The right hearing care professional will understand your hearing loss as well as your financial situation, lifestyle and expectations. They will be well-equipped to work with all types of budgets by offering products in the appropriate price range that will suit your needs.
Don’t put off this important step towards a better quality of life. Book a 30-day free trial to try the latest hearing aids at no cost to you. Visit hearinglifeadvantage.ca or call 1-888-816-1303 to book your trial now.