I am an educator, and I am insured by Blue Cross Blue Shield. Purchasing a hearing aid WITH insurance is a very expensive endeavor. However, I have a friend who has a set of hearing aids that have barely been used. She offered them to me and explained that I would have to get them fitted for my ears. Before making an appointment, I called my insurance provider to ask if my $1500 allowance for hearing aids covered fitting of hearing aids (my friend offered to me). The provider contacted ENT and then returned my call to give me the good news that, "YES," I was covered. When I was tested by the audiologist, I explained this situation. She balked at my claim and stated that they would have to do a follow up with my insurance provider. This was completed while I was at ENT. Once again, this time in writing ... it was confirmed that I was covered ... 100%! Today I get a call that ENT has received the parts for the fitting of my hearing aids ... but I would have to come up with $300. The audiologist stated that her boss did not feel comfortable with billing my provider in fear that "they might change their mind." Forget about empathy or five-star service here. I need hearing aids, but I am a single dad trying to scratch by every month. ENT does not care about YOU!
