Insurance 101 for the Baha System

Unlike hearing aids, the Cochlear™ Baha^® System is covered by Medicare. It is also covered by many insurance plans and typically Medicaid.^*

However, every health insurance plan is different, and we know that the insurance approval process can be confusing and frustrating. Here are the different types of insurance and the guidelines to help you through the process.

Your health plan’s coverage may vary based on:

• The terms of the coverage document in effect on the date of service
• Applicable laws/regulations based on the state you live in
• Medical coverage policies
• Plan’s designation/classification of the Baha System
• If the plan considers the Baha System to be a prosthetic device or if they classify the bone conduction implant system as a hearing aid.

Commercial health plan coverage varies by the plan you are on. You should work with your surgeon’s office to determine eligibility for coverage and benefits. Ask your health plan if they will provide a voluntary predetermination of benefits review. If yes, ask your doctor’s office to submit a predetermination packet to your health plan. For more information, go to our Insurance Resource Center and download the full guide.

Medicare covers Baha Systems. Medicare considers auditory osseointegrated implants, like the Baha System, to be prosthetic devices. You should work with your surgeon’s office to determine eligibility for coverage and benefits. Traditional Medicare does not offer an option for predetermination or prior authorization for coverage. For more information, go to our Insurance Resource Center and download the full guide.

Medicaid coverage for a Baha System varies by state. Prior authorization of a bone conduction implant surgery is generally required. You should work with your surgeon’s office to determine eligibility for coverage and benefits. For more information, go to our Insurance Resource Center and download the full guide

Visit our Insurance Resource Center to get your insurance questions related to the Baha System answered.

^*Coverage for adult Medicaid recipients varies according to state specific guidelines. Contact your insurance provider or hearing implant specialist to determine your eligibility for coverage.

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Renee Oehlerking

Renee Oehlerking is the Public Relations Manager at Cochlear Americas where she is responsible for the region’s public relations and consumer marketing social media. Renee enjoys uncovering, telling and showcasing the inspiring stories of hearing implant recipients. As a recent transplant to Denver, Colorado, Renee enjoys exploring all that the state has to offer outdoors.