Application Materials
Application for Hearing Aid and Audiological Services Funding 
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Provider Materials
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Issue Briefs
- Issue Brief 2022
- Issue Brief 2021
- Issue Brief 2020
- Issue Brief 2019
- 2018 - No Appropriation
- Issue Brief 2017
- Issue brief 2016
- Issue brief 2015
- Issue brief 2014
- Issue brief 2013
- Issue brief 2012
- Issue brief 2011
Funding options
There are a number of options available in regards to funding for families with children who develop hearing loss. Our staff is dedicated to connecting you to the resources that are right for you. Newborns are screened for hearing loss prior to hospital discharge and have a follow-up diagnostic evaluation. Those identified with hearing loss are enrolled in early intervention programs designed to help them develop communication skills. We work with providers and programs to ensure these goals are met through the assortment of potential resources, programs and funding mechanisms available. Look below to explore available options.
The first step for financial assistance for hearing aids is to check with your health insurance provider to see if there is hearing aid coverage. Additionally, audiologists may be aware of other funding sources.
IDEA Part C and Early Intervention Programs
The Early Intervention Program for Infants and Toddlers with Disabilities, also known as Part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA–Part C), provides grants to states to assist and maintain a statewide system of coordinated, comprehensive, and interagency programs of early intervention (EI) services for children from birth through age 2 and their families.
IDEA Part C services include assistive technology devices, such as assistive listening devices, hearing aids, personal FM units and closed captioning. Part C does not cover a medical device that is surgically implanted or the replacement of such a device. Cochlear implants (CIs) are in this category and not covered under IDEA Part C.
As the largest single insurer of children in the United States, Medicaid is one of the major sources of funding for hearing services. Medicaid is funded by both the federal and state governments, with each state administering its own program and establishing eligibility requirements. One of the primary mechanisms by which Medicaid services are provided to children is the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnosis and Treatment (EPSDT) program. EPSDT services focus on the prevention and early treatment of children’s health problems, and states are required to cover a comprehensive set of services, including speech-language pathology and audiology. EPSDT may fund EI services and hearing aids. All services must be medically necessary.
Medicaid coverage and payment for CIs and related services may differ from state to state, but generally, under the EPSDT program, services related to prosthetic devices and durable medical equipment for children are covered.
Deaf Services Commission of Iowa (DSCI)
DSCI connects deaf individuals to a variety of different services, including some funding opportunities.
Private Health Plans
Private health plans also may be a payment source for audiology and speech-language pathology services for a child with a hearing loss. However, health plans may exclude congenital conditions or services rendered in the public school. Careful review of the plan will determine coverage of services related to a child’s hearing loss.
Health care coverage for uninsured kids.
Iowa Compass connects people with disabilities and complex health-related needs to services and supports in their communities throughout Iowa.
