Those who seek help for their hearing challenges typically experience greater self-confidence, more rewarding relationships, and an improved quality of life.
However, National Institute of Health statistics indicates that out of the 48 million Americans with a hearing loss, only one in five individuals who would benefit from hearing aids actually use them.
Their statistics further indicate that people who have developed a hearing loss wait between seven and ten years before seeking help.
There is a long list of reasons people put off seeking help for their hearing loss. In my experience, the cost of treatment and lack of assistance from insurance companies is at or near the top.
I’m thrilled to share some great news for those with Regence insurance:
The School Employees Benefits Board (SEBB) in Washington has established a program that allows school district staff in the Tri-Cities and Walla Walla communities with Regence insurance to qualify for free or low-cost hearing care.
The School Employees Benefits Board Hearing Care Plan
The coverage allows school district staff ages 21 or over as of January 1, 2019, who meet specific hearing loss criteria to receive financial assistance from their insurance coverage toward the purchase of hearing aids.
How Does the SEBB Program Work with Regence Members?
Although patients may have to pay the standard rate for one routine hearing exam per calendar year, those who require hearing aids as a medical necessity qualify to pay $0 for the purchase of a single hearing aid or instrument set for both ears every five calendar years, including:
- Earmold(s)
- Hearing aid instrument
- Initial battery, cords, and other ancillary equipment (external components of cochlear implants and bone-anchored hearing aid devices)
- Warranty (only as included with the initial purchase)
- Follow-up consultation within 30 days after delivery of hearing aid
- Rental charges up to 30 days if you return the rented hearing aid before an actual purchase
- Repair of hearing aid equipment
Regence coverage does not include:
- Charges incurred after your plan coverage ends
- The purchase of extended warranties or warranties not related to the initial purchase of the hearing aid(s)
- Replacement batteries or other ancillary equipment not part of the initial hearing aid purchase
Regence partners with Amplifon, Tru-Hearing, and Beltone brand hearing aids with significant discounts available to Regence members who are not eligible for the benefits outlined in the SEBB program.
We Will Help Check Your Coverage
Early detection and treatment are the keys to limiting ongoing damage to your hearing while allowing you to get back to the rich, rewarding lifestyle you love.
At Sound Audiology & Hearing Aids, we are eager to make sure that you get the help you need for your hearing loss without having to wait until it becomes a significant challenge.
Through the SEBB program and Regence, we are able to meet all your hearing care needs at low to no cost.
However, the SEBB plan is not one-size-fits-all, so you will need to contact our insurance specialist to check on your coverage.
If you’re a Regence member and would like to start the process, provide the information requested on our check my insurance form.
