213 - Hearing Aids and Health Policy: Medicare, Ally's Act, and More with Bridget Dobyan of HIA

Host Andrew Bellavia explores crucial aspects of hearing health policy and coverage with guest Bridget Dobyan, Executive Director of the Hearing Industries Association. The discussion begins with an introduction and a policy discussion on the Medicare Audiologist Access Improvement Act (MAAIA). The focus then shifts to the current state of Medicare coverage for hearing aids and the gaps in accessibility, especially within Medicare Advantage plans.

Bridget highlights ongoing legislative efforts, such as Ally's Act, which aims to ensure private insurance coverage for bone anchored auditory implants and services. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) decision on hearing screenings by doctors is also examined, with an emphasis on the need for more research to develop effective hearing screeners.

They also discuss the future of MarkeTrak, an ongoing and essential market research tool for the hearing industry, and the significant role of the Hearing Industries Association (HIA) in education and advocacy. The episode concludes with insights into the Hear Well campaign, aiming to raise awareness and promote hearing health across the community, and the collaborative efforts needed to bring about positive change in hearing health.

Resources:

ADA statement on MAAIA legislation:

Ear Community, the group behind the Ally's Act bill:

USPSTF recommendation on hearing screening in older adults referenced in discussion

HIA's comments on the draft USPSTF recommendation

Andy's PSA video for HIA's Hear Well campaign

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