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Hearing loss care and TRICARE

A hearing evaluation can be covered when it is medically necessary. Hearing-aid coverage depends on who you are.

Last reviewed October 3, 2026 ยท Confirm time-sensitive details with the official program.

Official decisions come from TRICARE. This guide helps organize public information; verify eligibility, coverage, deadlines, costs, and contacts at TRICARE.mil.

Testing and hearing aids follow different rules

A hearing evaluation can be covered when it is medically necessary. Your plan decides whether you need a referral before the visit. Sudden hearing loss needs a same-day call to your doctor or the nurse advice line, not a webpage.

Hearing aids are narrower. The official page says TRICARE covers hearing aids and hearing-aid services for active duty service members and their families when the hearing loss meets the criteria. It says TRICARE does not cover hearing aids for retirees. Retirees may be able to use the Department of Veterans Affairs or the Retiree-At-Cost Hearing Aid Program at a military hospital or clinic that offers it. A child of a retired sponsor has a separate rule: the child must meet the hearing criteria, be enrolled in TRICARE Prime or the US Family Health Plan, and have a living sponsor. That child benefit is not available overseas.