WASHINGTON - Today, Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1) and Debbie Dingell (MI-12), announced the introduction of their bipartisan Medicare Hearing Aid Coverage Act—legislation that will expand Medicare coverage to include hearing aids for beneficiaries. With the average cost of hearing aids exceeding $2,500 and Medicare’s current exclusion leaving millions without access, this bill seeks to close a critical gap in healthcare coverage, ensuring that seniors can access the essential tools they need to maintain their independence, communication, and quality of life.

“Hearing loss is more than a medical condition—it’s a barrier to independence, communication, and dignity,” said Fitzpatrick. “For millions of seniors across our nation, Medicare’s outdated prohibition on hearing aid coverage has meant enduring unnecessary isolation and a diminished quality of life. With nearly 48 million Americans affected by hearing loss, the stakes are too high to ignore. Our bipartisan Expanding Medicare Hearing Aid Coverage Act is a decisive step forward in ensuring our seniors have access to the essential care they need to remain active, engaged, and valued members of our communities.”

“Hearing aids aren’t a luxury, they are critical for millions of people to maintain a healthy, independent lifestyle. Without them, many seniors cannot interact with family, friends, neighbors, and their communities, and as a result, can become isolated,” said Dingell. “By expanding coverage for hearing aids under Medicare, more seniors will be able to live with dignity and independence. I’m proud to re-introduce this legislation, and remain committed to getting this signed into law to expand access to care for so many who need it. It’s simple: No one should feel isolated, confused, or shutout from the world because they can’t afford hearing aids.”

The Medicare Hearing Aid Coverage Act is endorsed by the National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare.

“American seniors have been sorely lacking access to affordable hearing aids, even though proper hearing care is crucial to good health,” said Max Richtman, President & CEO of the National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare. “Traditional Medicare does not cover hearing aids, but it should. We strongly support Rep. Dingell’s Medicare Hearing Coverage Act, which will help make hearing aids affordable – and in so doing, improve the health and safety of millions of seniors. We are glad to see that Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick is co-leading this bill, validating hearing coverage for seniors as a bipartisan issue. No seniors should feel isolated, confused or shut out from the world because they can’t get hearing aids.” 

Hearing loss affects nearly 48 million Americans, with older adults disproportionately impacted. Research underscores the serious risks associated with untreated hearing loss, including:

• A 32% higher likelihood of hospitalization,
• A 24% increased risk of cognitive impairment, and
• Heightened risks of isolation, depression, and dementia.

Additionally, a 10-year longitudinal study in Baltimore revealed a direct correlation between hearing loss severity and dementia risk, emphasizing the urgent need for accessible solutions.

This legislation also mandates a comprehensive study by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to evaluate insurance programs addressing hearing loss and to identify best practices for providing these critical services.

By expanding Medicare coverage, this legislation is a decisive step forward in building a healthcare system that prioritizes access, equity, and quality of life for all seniors.

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