In March,, Representative Debbie Dingell of Michigan introduced the Medicare Hearing Aid Coverage Act of 2015. Representative Dingell spoke of the need for change.

“I have learned in recent months how many seniors are burdened by this problem,” said Dingell. “When I learned of this, the ENT doctor who brought it to my attention told me more than half the patients she saw who needed a hearing aid were unable to afford or obtain one. No one should feel isolated, confused or shut out from the world around them because they cannot afford the treatment they need. This bill is just one piece of the puzzle to bring our fragmented and unnavigable health care system into the 21st Century to better serve seniors and families.”

Representative Dingell’s bill would improve access to hearing aids and related examinations by removing part of the Social Security Act that prevents Medicare from covering hearing aids. The bill also directs the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to conduct a study on insurance programs that provide services to help with hearing loss.

HLAA is thrilled that Representative Dingell has introduced this bill. We will be working to ensure that all members of Congress understand the importance of hearing health care for seniors.