In a nutshell: If you lose them, first search thoroughly, then inform your audiologist. The statutory health insurance is obliged to subsidize the replacement again with the statutory fixed amount, but any personal contribution paid for the initial purchase will be due again. A new ENT prescription with a loss note is required, the audiologist will handle the rest, and loaner devices are usually available for the waiting period.
Step 1: Search, systematically if possible
From experience: Most lost hearing aids are found again. Search where devices are typically lost: jacket and trouser pockets, car, around hats, scarves and masks. Ask in the shops you were in before, often the devices were found and kept there.
Step 2: Inform the audiologist and, if applicable, the insurance company
If the search is unsuccessful, be sure to inform your audiologist, who knows your supply and will start the replacement process. If you have private coverage, for example through your household insurance, report the loss there too. Important to know: Whether hearing aids can be included in household insurance varies from insurer to insurer and should be clarified individually, preferably before something happens.
Step 3: New prescription and health insurance replacement
A new prescription from the ENT doctor is absolutely necessary for the replacement, stating that the left, right or both hearing aids have been lost. The audiologist submits this prescription to the health insurance company. The health insurance company must approve the replacement and subsidize it again with the statutory fixed amount; it is obliged to do so. You will receive an equivalent replacement, usually exactly the devices you had before. There are two things you should know: a personal contribution paid for the initial purchase will be due again. And the 6-year period until the next new supply starts anew with the replacement devices.
Bridging the waiting period
Most audiologists, including us in the specialist shop, provide loaner devices for the period until delivery. While each business handles this itself, it is common almost everywhere, just ask.
Prevention is easier
The most common moments of loss are taking off glasses, hats and masks. How to do this correctly is described in our glasses guide. And a fixed place for the devices, such as a case for on the go and the charging station at home, prevents the classic "put somewhere".
Frequently asked questions
Can I insure myself against the personal contribution? Some audiologists offer insurance for this, we do not. Alternatively, check your household insurance to see if hearing aids can be included, this varies individually.
Only one device is missing. Do I still get a replacement? Yes. The prescription then notes which side was lost. Only that one will be replaced.
Share now: