According to statistics published by the NIDCD, nearly 25 million people suffer from hearing loss. Even though hearing loss may be permanent and irreversible, it is usually manageable with the help of common hearing loss treatments. However, it is extremely important to seek treatment as soon as possible as it may lead to many long-term detrimental effects.

Unfortunately, millions of hearing-impaired people do not buy hearing aids because of their exorbitant prices. This delays their treatment and puts them at the risk of illnesses that can severely decrease their quality of life. Even though all may seem gloomy when you look at the price tags of some hearing aids, there is still light at the end of the tunnel. Here are 4 practical ways to get hearing aids at a cheaper price.  

  1. Inspect your insurance

It is commonly known that most private insurance companies do not cover the cost of hearing aids and hearing aid batteries under their policy. However, there are a few insurers that do provide either partial or complete coverage when it comes to hearing loss treatments. One example is that of United Healthcare that offers high-tech custom hearing aids to their beneficiaries for $599 to $899 each. The company also has a small number of other plans that contribute $500 to $1,000 towards the cost of hearing aids, or give you a discount if you purchase hearing aids from a contracted provider.

  1. Financial assistance

People that have limited means can try and get financial assistance in order to afford hearing aids. There are several ways you can do that. You can begin by calling your state vocational rehabilitation department and inquire about any state programs or civil organizations that could help. You can also call the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders at 800-241-1044 or Sertoma for a comprehensive list of hearing aid assistance programs or financial resources for hearing aids.

  1. Look into basic models

Speak with your hearing care provider to come up with a list of must-haves for your hearing devices. While the higher-end devices come with more bells and whistles, many mild cases of hearing loss can be treated with a basic hearing aid.

Discuss your options, needs and financing more in-depth with your hearing practitioner.

  1. Veteran Benefits

Veteran Affairs provides several benefits to war veterans in the U.S. One of these benefits is subsidized or free hearing loss treatment. If your hearing loss is connected to military service or linked to a medical condition treated at a Veteran Affairs hospital, you may be eligible for free hearing aids. You can also get hearing aids through the Veteran Affairs if your hearing loss is severe enough to interfere in your daily life.