Outdated or Unsupported Browser Detected
DWD's website uses the latest technology. This makes our site faster and easier to use across all devices. Unfortunatley, your browser is out of date and is not supported. An update is not required, but it is strongly recommended to improve your browsing experience. To update Internet Explorer to Microsoft Edge visit their website.
December 2020
This guidance outlines the hearing aid process, reviews issues to consider in vocational counseling, and discusses how to determine the rate of payment for a consumer who requires a hearing aid. This document further considers services related to hearing aids, including maintenance and repairs.
The decision on whether to purchase hearing aids can be complicated. The Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC) should use counseling techniques to guide the consumer through the process. Hearing aid costs are expensive and increasing, and there are several ongoing costs and commitments for the consumer to consider. Regular audiology appointments to obtain and fit hearing aids are required, and the consumer must address responsibilities such as hearing aid battery replacement, maintenance, protection, repair, and eventually replacement as needed in the future.
At any point in the vocational rehabilitation process, a VRC may directly observe or hear a consumer discuss signs of experiencing hearing loss. The VRC should ask questions regarding a consumer's functional hearing as it relates to reaching their IPE goal or participating in services. Specific questions should be asked to identify situations and environments in which a consumer has difficulty hearing, including work environments. The purpose of these initial questions is to gather information to determine whether a referral for a formal audiological evaluation is necessary and how the hearing loss will impact work.
Determine if there are any comparable benefits available before purchasing a service including the hearing evaluation. If reviewing and exploring a comparable benefit does not significantly delay services (such as job loss), then DVR can explore comparable benefits. Hearing aids are often not covered by insurance companies, but the consumer should check with their provider. Other potential comparable benefits include the Veteran's Administration and the Katie Beckett program for individuals under 18 years old. If the consumer has insurance, but is unable to meet the deductible, DVR can sometimes assist with paying for it on a case-by-case basis. The consumer needs to provide documentation that includes insurance coverage, deductible, prices, etc.
To coordinate services and benefits, ask the consumer to obtain a letter, or other documentation from their benefit provider, indicating what is or is not covered for hearing aids and evaluations.
Financial assistance for hearing aids may be available from Medicaid or other resources. A listing of potential resources can be found at Hearing Loss Association of America's website.
Scenario One: A consumer has insurance coverage for hearing aids but must pay a premium or copay of $500 before insurance coverage will take over. It may be more cost-effective for DVR to reimburse the consumer $500 for this cost, and the insurance provider will cover the rest. DVR can request the audiologist provide a breakdown of costs using the insurance benefit and compare it to the invoice + 15% agreement to determine which is the least-cost option.
Scenario Two: If a consumer has insurance coverage for hearing aids, sometimes an audiologist will bill the insurance the usual and customary charges first and the remaining amount to DVR. However, the patient's insurance requires him to pay the full amount (i.e. $5100) and present them with a "paid in full" receipt to be reimbursed by the insurance. Ultimately, the consumer was told he would be reimbursed only $1100, leaving him with $4000 to pay themself. The other option would be to forego insurance altogether and use the typical DVR formula of invoice plus 15% plus Medicaid dispensing fee which totals $3318.22. In this instance, even though there is a comparable benefit, it is cheaper to pursue the second option.
Note: If a consumer has insurance, they need to provide insurance information to DVR to be attached to the casefile before making payment arrangements. Examples of this information can include billing details from the audiologist, an email from the insurance company, or a statement explaining benefits coverage.
Note: Consult with your local SenseAbility representative and/or management.
DVR is required to use a licensed audiologist, not a certified hearing aid dispenser or other unlicensed provider, when evaluating a consumer's needs. An audiologist must be licensed through the State of Wisconsin. A licensed audiologist may have a doctorate in audiology (Au.D.) or have been grandfathered in with a master's degree to hold the state licensed required.
An Audiologist can provide a more comprehensive service to the consumer and is specifically trained and licensed. These are some examples of what audiologists are qualified to provide:
Not all consumers receive these services as they are provided on an individualized basis and must be tied to their disability and employment goal.
Several steps are included in the hearing aid evaluation process. If a consumer has a history of hearing loss and use of hearing aids, less information is needed to prepare them for completing an evaluation.
At the time of the hearing evaluation, a case history will be taken to determine how the existing hearing loss impacts the consumer's day-to-day life, including employment or potential employment. A medical history will be taken, and questions will be asked about when and how the hearing loss started, and if there are other hearing-related issues to address such as ringing in the ears (tinnitus) or dizziness. Questions about general health history that might be relevant to use of hearing aids may also be included. Additionally, a hearing test (or tests) will be completed with an audiologist in a sound-proof room to test sound levels and frequency.
If the hearing test reveals a permanent hearing loss, a hearing aid may be recommended for one or both ears. The evaluator may explain what sounds the consumer is not hearing and what a hearing aid or aids can do to help. It is usually at the second appointment that hearing aid style options are presented. The evaluator will recommend the most appropriate hearing aid styles, features, and level of sophistication based on the degree of hearing loss and need.
Once a decision is made about the necessary type of hearing aid, the evaluator may take impressions of the consumer's ears for custom hearing aids or behind-the-ear hearing aids, which require earmolds. Hearing aids must usually be ordered from a manufacturer and then programmed by a hearing professional to meet specific hearing needs. This process can take several few weeks and may require multiple appointments.
Each audiogram should have a series of X's and O's connected with lines. The X's refer to the left ear and the O's refer to the right ear. Like vision, each ear has its own level of ability to hear and detect sound, or tones. Sounds that are above each of the connected lines are those that the individual cannot detect. The level of hearing loss is determined by averaging the loudness (Db) at frequencies (Hz) 500, 1000, and 2000.
It may be helpful to refer to a functional audiogram to show how hearing loss at a certain decibel or frequency might impact work. See the Functional Audiogram on page 10 for more information.
Before beginning the process of purchasing a hearing aid, determine that the hearing aid and related services are necessary and appropriate for the achievement of the IPE goal. DVR will purchase the lowest cost option that will meet the consumer's needs as noted in the IPE. DVR uses the Medical Assistance Maximum Allowable Fee schedule as a benchmark for pricing.
Inform the consumer that they have the option to purchase hearing aid(s) at their preferred service provider, even if it is not the lowest cost option, so long as they pay the cost differential themselves. DVR’s maximum allowable contribution toward the purchase price is the lowest estimated price that was obtained in the competitive process. If the consumer has insurance, but is unable to meet the deductible, in some cases DVR may assist with paying the deductible. This decision is made on a case-by-case basis. The consumer must provide documentation that includes all insurance coverage information, including deductible, prices, etc.
Obtain an evaluation recommending specific hearing aid(s), including a detailed report that shows:
Identify if the provider will offer the recommended hearing aid(s) at a cost not to exceed invoice cost plus 15 percent, or will accept the cost as outlined in the Medical Assistance Maximum Allowable Fee Schedule: https://www.forwardhealth.wi.gov/kw/pdf/2017-30.pdf.
Note: It may be necessary to consult with the provider and to determine if there have been allowed price increases by Medicaid.
If the cost of the hearing aid(s) estimated by the service provider fits the criteria described above, proceed with purchasing. If not, contact two additional service providers to obtain an estimate for the same hearing aid(s).
This request is for an estimate only and does not obligate the service provider to fit the patient with the same hearing aid(s). An additional hearing aid evaluation may be authorized when the counselor or the consumer has a concern or seeks validation of the original assessment.
Authorize the goods/services to the provider. Coding for hearing aids and related services are as follows:
| Title | Examples and Included Items | Code | Object/Sub-Object Codes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hearing Evaluation | Hearing Assessments, Audiology Exams etc. | 021 | Service: 8910000 (5712) |
| Hearing Aids | Restoration Hearing Aids, Hearing Aid Related Equipment and Services | 036 | Supply: 8800000 (5700-72) |
| Hearing Aid Dispensing Fee | Includes:
|
036 | Service: 8910000 (5712) |
| Hearing Devices | Rehabilitation Technology Devices (FM Systems, Bluetooth, loop systems, etc.) Note: If the rehabilitation technology is built directly into the hearing aid, code as 036. |
033 | Supply: 8800000 (5700-72) |
Note: A copy of this resource can be included with each purchase order.
Check in with the consumer and determine if all goods have been received and all services have been completed. Receive on the purchase order as soon as the consumer reports receipt of goods and completion of satisfactory services.
Maintaining hearing aids requires daily cleaning and care to remove ear wax, which can damage hearing aid mechanisms. Any exposure to water, humidity, condensation, or perspiration can cause severe damage to a hearing aid. Hearing aids must be dried out daily.
Consumers can use a "dry box" to assist in keeping hearing aids dry when not in use. To prevent damage, hearing aids should be stored in a consistent, safe manner when not in use. They should be placed out of the reach of small children and pets, as animals tend to be drawn to the devices due to the lingering human scent.
Hearing aids typically come with a starter set of batteries. Consumers are responsible for purchasing additional batteries, and it is recommended that they speak with their audiologist about battery options. Hearing aids may also require occasional repairs and updates. Programming updates or simple repairs may address issues that the consumer is experiencing with existing hearing aids. The consumer should bring along existing hearing aids to see what repairs or update options are possible.
If necessary for employment, DVR may replace hearing aids. The goal is to assist consumers in being as independent on the job as possible. It is important to identify which functional areas are impacted as well as the work environment in making a decision to purchase replacement hearing aids.
Most hearing aids and associated equipment come with a one-year warranty from the manufacturer. The warranty typically covers one year of loss, damage, and repairs. Many audiologists will also offer an extended two- or three-year hearing aid warranty at the time of purchase. The average lifespan of a hearing aid is six years. DVR may assist with the cost of an extended warranty on a case-by-case basis or negotiate with the consumer to pick up this additional cost. Each case is different and payment for warranties should be discussed with the consumer.
Following the purchase of hearings aids with DVR's assistance, consumers should identify strategies for saving and use of other available sources for funding future hearing aids. Several options and resources are available to assist with personal savings planning. DVR staff should share these resources with consumers following a successful hearing aid purchase:
In addition to these options, consumers may consider a personal savings account payroll deduction. This option involves the consumer setting up their payroll account to deposit a small amount into a separate savings account each pay period or month to go toward purchasing future hearing aids or batteries.
Note: As always, DVR staff are encouraged to share questions with Advanced VRCs, VR Supervisors, their local SenseAbility representative, or the SenseAbility team (DWD DL DVR SenseAbility).
The component of the hearing aid that boosts the volume of sound.
The chart that provides a visual representation of your hearing exam results. The vertical axis measures decibels (volume) and the horizontal axis measures frequencies (pitch). An audiologist documents the lowest decibel level you can hear at each frequency. The line on an audiogram identifies the level of hearing loss for each ear.
Hearing aid with the majority of its parts contained in a case placed behind the ear and attached to an earmold by a clear plastic tube. Mini-BTE hearing aids are also available.
Hearing loss in both ears, which could be symmetrical (the same degree of loss in both ears) or asymmetrical (different levels of loss in each ear).
Enables the hearing aid to communicate wirelessly with several devices, including mobile phones, computers, MP3 players, and other compatible products.
Medical term for ear wax.
The unit of measure for sound level or intensity. Normal conversation registers at approximately 60 decibels, and long-term exposure to any sound more than 80 decibels could cause irreversible hearing loss. Since the scale is logarithmic, an increase of 6-10 decibels doubles the volume of the sound. See diagram on page 10 for an example.
Hearing loss is generally classified as mild (26-40 dB loss), moderate (41-55), severe (71-90), or profound (91+).
Hearing aids that incorporate a digital microchip, used to custom-program the hearing aid to complement each person’s distinct hearing loss.
A special microprocessor inside of a hearing aid that manipulates and enhances sound.
Microphones that can focus in on sound coming from a specific location while minimizing background noise.
A piece of plastic, acrylic, or other pliable material that is shaped to the contours of an individual’s ear, used for the fitting of hearing aids.
Represents pitch as measured in hertz. Picture moving up the keys on a piano, from left to right (low-frequency/pitch to high-frequency/pitch). See diagram on page 10 for an example.
A device (not a hearing aid) used to amplify sounds using an external microphone.
The type of hearing aid defined by its size and position relative to the ear. Common styles include behind-the-ear, in-the-ear, and in-the-canal.
The most common type of hearing loss. People with high-frequency hearing loss have the most difficulty hearing higher frequency sounds, like the sounds of speech.
Hearing aid with parts enclosed in a case that fits inside of the ear canal. Completely-in-the-canal (CIC) hearing aids are also available that are near invisible when worn.
Hearing aid with parts enclosed in a case that fits in the outer part of the ear.
A system (using hearing aids) consisting of a loop of wire placed around the perimeter of a designated area that enables partially deaf people to hear dialogue and sound in theatres, cinemas, etc. The system emits an electromagnetic signal which is picked up by a hearing aid.
The hearing aid component that picks up sound in the environment and converts the sound waves into an electrical signal.
Functionality that assists the hearing aid to differentiate speech sounds from background noise, which results in the augmentation of speech and the inhibition of distracting noise.
A type of hearing loss that occurs when there is damage to the nerve cells of the inner ear. This is the most common type of permanent hearing loss, triggered by being exposed to loud noise, the aging process, genetics, or other health issues.
The hearing aid component that delivers the enhanced sound to the ear.
A coil placed inside of a hearing aid that allows it to connect to wireless signals originating from telephones, assistive listening devices, and hearing loops installed in public venues.
The lowest decibel level that can be detected at each frequency.
A prolonged ringing or buzzing in the ears when no external sound is present. Usually a sign of hearing damage or loss.
Available in specific hearing aids, enabling wireless connectivity to compatible gadgets such as smartphones and music players.
Hearing aid programming that enables the individual to adjust sound settings depending on the environment (e.g. at home versus in a chaotic restaurant).
The measurement of hearing consists of two parameters: the frequency or pitch of the sound, and the intensity or loudness of the sound. Once you gain an understanding of how these two parameters interact, you can begin to understand everyone's hearing abilities.
Audiogram: An audiogram is a graph that charts the way a person responds to specific sounds called puretones. It is designed to record the responses for the mechanical part of hearing. An audiologist measures hearing threshold at specific decibels and hertz. Most audiologists will also identify an individual's ability to recognize speech when measuring hearing loss.
Speech Banana: A term used to describe the area where all phonemes, or sounds of human speech, appear on an audiogram. Does your consumer have difficulty understanding human speech? Look at the audiogram below and identify the parts of sound they are not detecting.
Use the Handout for Audiologists as a template for requesting information.
DWD Contact Information
201 E. Washington Ave
P.O. Box 7946
Madison, WI 53707
(608) 266-3131
Sign up for DWD news and updates
A proud partner of the 
network