The cost of hearing aids

Hearing loss is a significant cost for many at a personal level, but it also impacts Australia as a whole.

Better Hearing Australia reported that hearing loss costs the economy up to 12 billion dollars a year as a result of productivity loss and people leaving the labour force because of issues with their hearing.

So how much is your hearing worth to you?

Why high-quality hearing aids are worth paying for

While you may be tempted by cheaper hearing aids available online, it’s important to remember that a hearing aid is a long-term investment in your health and quality of life. The initial cost may be higher but you should consider the additional services you have access to, such as:

• A hearing assessment performed by a qualified clinician
• A hearing aid fitted by a hearing care professional
• Advanced hearing aid technology
• Ongoing support and maintenance for the lifetime of the hearing aid (often for up to 5 years)

This will cost less in the long run, and provide peace of mind, knowing that your hearing aids will work properly from day one.
 

Are you eligible for financial help?

Although Medicare does not cover hearing aids, there are several options available which may be able to offer you some additional financial support, if you meet certain criteria.

Fully subsidised hearing aids for pensioners and Veterans

The Australian Government Hearing Services Program provides ongoing support and offers to subsidise the cost of hearing products and services for Australian pensioners and Veterans. Visit our page on free hearing aids for pensioners for more information. 

Apply for a Permanent Impairment lump sum benefit

You may be able to claim for the cost of a reasonable hearing aid if you have a 5% or more binaural (both ears combined) hearing loss as a result of exposure to noise in the workplace.

Health Insurance

Some insurance providers cover hearing aids or provide an allowance or contribution to the cost of a new hearing aid under their ‘extras’ cover. Check with your insurance provider to see what your personal plan covers.

Also, why not speak to one of our expert clinicians to find out more about the cost of a hearing aid solution available to you.

It is worth comparing hearing aids, as prices vary significantly between basic and premium models.

There are inexpensive, entry-level models that provide improved hearing and make it possible to enjoy and appreciate conversations in small groups. Even the basic models offer a wide variety of functions, still at a very reasonable price.

However, if you prefer a wider range of features, and appreciate high-fidelity sound, you might be better off with a slightly more expensive hearing aid. It is worth bearing in mind that premium hearing aids offer special additional functions. The type of device is also a crucial factor: In most cases, in-the-ear hearing aids are more expensive than behind-the-ear hearing aids.

You can find more information about the differences between behind-the-ear and in-the-ear models here.

The price of an individual hearing aid is thus influenced by various factors. These include:

• Technical features
• Functions
• Type
• Size of hearing aid

Ultimately, however, it is your individual needs and hearing ability that determine which type of device is best for you. A clinician can help you choose the right model and you may be able to try it out. 

When comparing the prices of different hearing aids, post-purchase costs should also be taken into account. It is worth considering, for example, whether multiple adjustments will be required before the hearing aid fits your ear perfectly.

You should also be aware of the difference in price between models with disposable and rechargeable batteries. Future maintenance and repair costs should also be factored in.

Generally speaking, if you have hearing loss in both ears, it is advisable to use a hearing aid in both. This is because with two functioning ears, the brain is able to distinguish the tiniest differences in sound, making it possible to identify sounds precisely. An appropriate hearing aid should therefore be used in each ear in order to ensure improved hearing.

Just how expensive your hearing aid will be can only be determined on a case-by-case basis. The price depends on a range of factors, including the personal needs of the individual, and even on the contribution paid by the health insurance company. This makes it impossible to provide an “all-in” price. If you would like more information and a no-obligation cost estimate, you can ask for an appointment with one of our clinicians.