Hearing loss is a significant issue affecting millions of Americans, and Maryland is no exception. According to data from Johns Hopkins University and the CDC, about 15 percent of adults in Maryland experience hearing loss, with prevalence increasing sharply with age. Nearly 60% of adults over 70 face hearing challenges, yet only 20 percent of those affected use hearing aids.
Whether it’s missing out on conversations, struggling to hear your favorite music, or feeling isolated in social settings, untreated hearing loss can take a toll on emotional and mental well-being. For adults, the financial burden of purchasing a hearing aid has been one of the most significant barriers to treatment, with the cost of these devices often ranging from $2,500 to $8,000 per pair.
But now, a new law is changing the game for state residents.
Breaking Barriers to Hearing Health
While previously, insurance coverage in the state was mandated only for children under 19, beginning January 2025, Maryland’s House Bill 1339 and Senate Bill 778 extend this benefit to adults.
“At the moment, the biggest challenge [to access] is cost…If this law does what we hope it will do, it will greatly increase accessibility to hearing healthcare for everyone,” said Pamela McIntyre, Director of Operations for Freedom Hearing Center, a medical-based hearing care practice with locations across Maryland. “Hearing healthcare is an important part of overall health and wellbeing and we truly believe that everyone should have access to hearing devices when needed.”
The new mandate requires insurers, nonprofit health service plans, and HMOs to cover up to $1,400 per hearing aid every 36 months. Individuals can also choose higher-priced devices and pay the difference without penalties to providers.
This change also aligns with broader efforts to make hearing aids accessible to everyone. In 2022, the FDA introduced over-the-counter hearing aids for mild to moderate hearing loss, offering an affordable option for those who don’t require prescription devices. However, over-the-counter devices aren’t suitable for everyone, particularly those with more severe hearing loss.
This expansion addresses a critical gap for older adults, as hearing loss increases sharply with age. Approximately six in 10 adults over 70 experience hearing loss. With this change, many can now afford devices that can enhance their quality of life, like a hearing aid, improve communication and reduce risks like social isolation and cognitive decline.
By addressing financial and accessibility barriers, this legislation helps ensure that all residents can get the care they need. If hearing loss has been holding you back, now is the time to take the first step toward better hearing health with the help of an appropriate hearing aid.
Taking the Next Steps
Marylanders looking to benefit from the new law should start by reviewing their insurance plans.
“This is Maryland state legislation, which should not affect federal programs so Medicare and any government insurance would not be impacted by the new law,” said McIntyre. “Since there are so many different insurances in Maryland and insurances renew on an annual basis, this will affect each person differently.”
This coverage applies only to hearing aids prescribed, fitted, and dispensed by licensed audiologists. Schedule a hearing test if you’re experiencing difficulties, and they can evaluate and determine whether hearing aids are appropriate for you.
Check your current benefits to understand how the new law applies and contact your insurance provider or consult your HR department if you’re covered under an employer-sponsored plan. Call the number on the back of your insurance card to understand how the new law applies to your coverage. Key questions to ask include:
- -Does my insurance plan provide the $1,400 benefit per ear for each hearing aid?
- -When will I be eligible for this benefit?
- -Am I required to use a third-party provider associated with my insurance, or can I work with any audiologist of my choice to access this coverage?
Improving Essential Access
Hearing aids are not just medical devices; they are vital tools for enhancing quality of life. By improving communication and reducing the risks associated with untreated hearing loss, Maryland’s expanded coverage empowers residents to stay engaged with their communities and lead healthier lives.
“People can be leery to have their hearing tested assuming that audiologists just want to sell hearing aids. The truth is there are many things that can contribute to hearing loss including medication, certain medical conditions, and genetics,” said McIntyre.
“Our clinic works with multiple manufacturers that provide FDA approved prescription devices with a range of price points. We do our best to help our patients with financing options and even have a program where we donate devices, including a hearing aid, twice a year to someone in our local community.”
With expanded coverage, there’s no better time to reconnect with the world around you through a hearing aid. You can reach out to Freedom Hearing Center today for guidance and support through the entire process.
Dr. Rebecca Jahed, Clinical Audiologist
LOCATIONS
Prince Frederick Office
135 West Dares Beach Road, Suite 102
Prince Frederick, MD 20678
443-295-7555
Waldorf Office
3475 Leonardtown Road, Suite 102
Waldorf, MD 20601
443-374-8432
Solomons Medical Center
14090 H.G. Trueman Road, Suite 1400
Solomons, MD 20688
443-295-7100
Greenbelt Office
7247 Hanover Parkway, Suite A
Greenbelt, MD 20770
443-295-7555
Leonardtown Office
41660 Courthouse Drive, Suite 301
Leonardtown, MD 20650
443-295-7100, Option 5
www.freedomhearing.com
