Benefit: Hearing Services

Definition: Florida covers hearing services provided by licensed, Medicaid participating Ear, Nose and Throat doctors, audiologists (healthcare professional specializing in identifying, diagnosing, treating and monitoring hearing disorders), and hearing aid specialists.  Medicaid hearing services include:

• Cochlear implant services (a surgically implanted electronic device or bionic ear);
• Diagnostic testing;
• Hearing aids (evaluations, fitting and dispensing, repairs and accessories); and
• Newborn hearing screening.( Newborn hearing screening must be performed in the hospital or birthing center)

Limits: 

• Medicaid reimbursement for evaluations is limited to one every three years from the date of service (Date of service for hearing aids is the day the hearing aid is ordered);
• Hearing aids are limited to one per ear per recipient every 3 years;
• Cochlear implants are limited to one in either ear, but not both. Cochlear implants must be prior authorized;
• Medicaid does not reimburse for hearing aid routine maintenance; batteries, cord or wire replacement, or cleaning; and
• Medicaid does not reimburse for hearing aid repairs until after the manufacturer’s warranty has expired.

Exceptions: None

Co-pays: None

Reform items that can vary: None