How to Access Hearing Aids

Not understanding what people around you are saying may have a big impact on your quality of life. Hearing loss may cause you to withdraw from interacting with other people, affecting your relationships and reducing social activities.

Some people with hearing loss may be unaware of how much it’s impacting their life. That’s because it often occurs gradually as people get older. Hearing loss may be so subtle that it’s not immediately noticeable. There are several signs, however, that indicate you’re having trouble hearing.

Hearing Loss Warning Signs

The warning signs of hearing loss include:

• Trouble understanding words, especially in noisy or crowded places
• Asking people to repeat themselves or speak more slowly and clearly
• Being bothered by background noises
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• Muffled sounds
• Needing to turn up the volume on the television or radio
• Difficulty understanding conversations on the telephone
• Not being able to hear high-pitched sounds, like birds singing or children's voices
• Watching people’s lips rather than making eye contact
• Straining to listen and being fatigued from following conversations

If you have hearing loss, you may be trying to compensate by avoiding certain situations. For example, preferring to speak to someone in person rather than on the telephone, or looking for a quiet place to have a conversation. However, as the hearing loss gets worse, you may no longer be able to compensate and become frustrated, avoiding social events and isolating yourself.

If you’ve experienced any signs of hearing loss, you should consider having your hearing tested by a healthcare professional. They will be able to determine the type and severity of hearing loss and discuss treatment options with you.

Introducing TruHearing

Beginning in January 2024, we introduced a new partnership with TruHearing. If you purchase your health insurance as a qualified health plan, you will be able to access high-quality hearing aids by working with your existing audiologist or from our new partner TruHearing. This benefit is available to people who are enrolled in a qualified health plan that is purchased from Vermont Health Connect or directly with us, or through some large group employer health insurance plans.

The benefit covers one hearing aid per ear, every three years. Additionally, there is coverage for one routine hearing exam each plan year. Hearing aid(s) must be prescribed, fitted, and dispensed by a hearing care professional like TruHearing or an in-network audiologist. There is no coverage for over-the-counter hearing aids.

If you use TruHearing, the benefits include:

• Hearing exams by local professionals
• Substantial discounts on hearing aid purchases
• Risk-free 60-day trial period
• Follow-up visits to make sure your hearing aids fit well and are working properly
• One-year supply of batteries included for hearing aids that are not rechargeable
• Full three-year manufacturer warranty

Scheduling an Exam

It’s simple to start using the TruHearing program. First, call TruHearing at 1-833-414-7710 or TTY 711. They will be glad to answer any questions and schedule an appointment with a qualified TruHearing network provider near you.

The provider will conduct a thorough hearing exam. If you need hearing aids, the provider will help you choose the right ones. TruHearing offers a choice of more than 50 different hearing aids from top manufacturers. There are a wide variety of models and styles to choose from. TruHearing offers hearing aids with the latest technology. For more information about TruHearing, visit their website.  

If you prefer not to go through TruHearing, you can find an in-network audiologist with our Find a Doctor online tool or by calling our customer service team at the number on the back of your member ID card.

Hearing Aid Discounts

One reason that people don’t address their hearing loss is the price of hearing aids, which can cost upwards of $3,000 per ear. TruHearing offers big discounts on the most popular models. For example, a hearing aid that retails for $2,200 can be purchased through TruHearing for just $1,250 – more than 40 percent off retail pricing.

Reconnect and Live Happy

Taking action to address your hearing loss can help you reconnect with loved ones and friends. It will also get you back to enjoying life to its fullest. With your new hearing aids, you won’t have to struggle any longer to hear the world around you.