Understanding Your Hearing Care Costs

Diagnostic Testing

Initial evaluation and hearing tests to diagnose your condition and determine treatment needs.

What's Typically Included
Audiogram, tympanometry, speech testing, consultation
Questions to Ask
"What is my copay?" "Is this covered as preventive or diagnostic?"
Cost Factors
Provider type, location, complexity of testing needed
Insurance Coverage
Most insurance plans cover diagnostic testing when medically necessary. Ask about your specific copay and deductible.

Hearing Devices

Hearing aids, cochlear implants, and assistive devices - understanding your options and coverage.

Cost Variables
Technology level, features, brand, provider markup, services included
What to Compare
Device price, fitting fees, warranty, follow-up visits, trial periods
Insurance Questions
"What's my hearing aid benefit?" "How often can I get new ones?"
Insurance Coverage
Coverage varies widely by plan. Some offer allowances every few years, others don't cover hearing aids at all.

Medical Treatments

Surgical procedures and medical treatments for hearing and ear conditions.

Treatment Types
Earwax removal, ear surgery, medication, balance therapy
Pre-Authorization
Some procedures require approval before treatment
Hospital vs. Office
Location affects billing - outpatient vs. surgical center vs. office
Insurance Coverage
Medical treatments are typically covered when medically necessary. Check if pre-authorization is required.

Ongoing Care

Follow-up appointments, device maintenance, and long-term hearing health management.

What's Included
Adjustments, cleaning, programming, annual hearing tests
Service Packages
Some providers offer bundled care packages vs. fee-per-visit
Warranty Coverage
Understand what repairs and replacements are covered
Insurance Coverage
Follow-up visits often covered. Device repairs and warranties typically aren't covered by insurance.

Financial Assistance Options

Multiple programs and resources to help make hearing care affordable, regardless of your insurance situation.

UCSF Financial Assistance

Payment plans, sliding scale fees, and charity care programs for qualifying patients. Available for all UCSF hearing services.

Apply for UCSF Aid

Hearing Aid Programs

State and nonprofit programs providing free or low-cost hearing aids for qualifying individuals and families.

Find Aid Programs

Flexible Spending & HSA

Use pre-tax dollars from FSA or HSA accounts for hearing aids, testing, and medical treatments.

Learn About FSA/HSA

Veterans Benefits

VA hearing care benefits, including free hearing aids and services for qualifying veterans.

VA Hearing Benefits

Money-Saving Tips

Before Your Appointment
Call your insurance to verify hearing benefits, copays, and any pre-authorization requirements. Ask: "What's my hearing aid benefit?" and "Is a referral required?"
Get Cost Estimates
Ask providers for written cost estimates before treatment. Compare prices between different providers, especially for hearing aids and elective procedures.
Compare Your Options
Don't just compare devices - compare total cost of care including fitting, follow-ups, warranties, and ongoing support services.
Use Pre-Tax Benefits
Plan hearing aid purchases around your FSA/HSA benefit year. You can use pre-tax dollars for hearing aids, testing, and medical treatments.
Ask About Payment Plans
Many providers offer interest-free payment plans. UCSF has financial counselors who can help you understand all your options.
Understand Your Bills
Review all bills carefully. If something seems wrong, call the billing department. You have the right to understand all charges.

Ready to Take Action?

Need Financial Help?

Don't avoid hearing care due to cost concerns. UCSF offers payment plans and financial assistance. Community health centers provide sliding scale fees.

Get Financial Help

UCSF Financial Support

Our financial counselors help patients understand insurance benefits, apply for assistance programs, and create affordable payment plans for hearing care.