As we step into 2024, we have exciting news for Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) members and anyone considering innovative hearing care. In this blog post, we'll explore how we’re making strides in accessibility and convenience through our in-network agreement with BCBS and the expansion of telehealth services.
Eargo and BCBS:
We have established ourselves as an in-network provider for many Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) members, reaching over 100 million individuals nationwide through the BlueCard™ program.1 If you're a BCBS member with PPO network access or BlueCard eligibility and have an applicable hearing benefit, you may be able to apply your hearing benefit towards the purchase of Eargo hearing aids.
Lower Out-of-Pocket Costs:
Seeing an in-network provider often translates to lower out-of-pocket costs for patients. This means that if you have BCBS and Eargo is in-network for your plan, your hearing benefits could stretch further, making our discreet, rechargeable hearing aids more accessible.
Easy Eligibility Verification:
We understand the importance of clarity when it comes to insurance coverage. We offer a simple process to verify your eligibility and benefits, partnering with you to understand your hearing aid coverage better. Just reach out to our team at 1 (615) 208-7504 or visit https://www.eargo.com/insurance/bcbs to get started.2
Hearing Aid Coverage Requirements:
While Eargo is in-network for many BCBS plans, it's important to note that some plans may require an in-person hearing test as a condition of coverage. We will review your plan’s specific requirements when we verify your insurance and communicate those requirements to you.
Hearing Benefits in Employer and Individual Health Plans:
Beyond BCBS, many employers and individual health plans now include hearing benefits. Take a moment to review your plan documents and see if your coverage extends to hearing aids.
Telehealth Expansion for Greater Accessibility:
We have always been committed to providing virtual and remote customer support, but 2024 brings an exciting expansion: we now offer telehealth consultations with licensed Eargo audiologists in select states.3
Convenience and Flexibility:
Telehealth offers a more convenient and flexible approach to healthcare. Our telehealth services allow you to complete hearing screenings and consultations from the comfort of your own home.
Treatment Plans Tailored to You:
During a telehealth appointment, your licensed Eargo audiologist will review your screening results, discuss your concerns, history, and hearing needs, and collaborate with you to develop a personalized treatment plan.
Insurance Coverage for Telehealth:
Most insurance plans cover the cost of telehealth visits, making it an accessible option for many. We’ve streamlined the billing process so that we can verify your insurance benefits and submit a claim on your behalf, allowing you to focus on your health without the added stress of the paperwork.
If you are in Michigan and interested in a telehealth visit with an Eargo audiologist, learn more here.
Looking Ahead: More States to Benefit from Telehealth in 2024
We have ambitious plans to expand telehealth services to customers in more states throughout 2024. This commitment reflects our dedication to making hearing healthcare not only effective but also easily accessible to individuals across the country.
Our contract with BCBS and our expansion to provide telehealth services mark significant steps toward a more inclusive and convenient hearing care experience. Whether you're considering hearing aids or seeking more accessible healthcare options, our commitment to innovation and collaboration with insurance providers is something to keep an eye on in 2024.
For Health Plans: If you are a health plan or employer wanting to ensure your members have access to Eargo, contact us at partners@eargo.com or visit https://www.eargo.com/health-plans.
1 https://www.bcbs.com/articles/nationwide-access-and-local-support-what-it-means-blue-members
2 We will perform an insurance verification of coverage and benefits with BCBS and communicate what we learn about your hearing aid benefit and your expected financial responsibility. However, a verification of benefits from BCBS is not a guarantee of coverage or payment. Health insurance plans do not always reimburse or pay for the cost of a hearing evaluation or hearing aids, even when you or your health care provider have reason to think you need the hearing aids. We will not know BCBS’s final coverage determination until it processes your insurance claim.
3 Eargo currently offers telehealth visits in Michigan and Indiana.
