Hearing aids in France: how to get tested, reimbursed, and supported
We look at which hearing specialists you need to visit as well as affordable hearing aid options
Highly subsidised hearing aids are available under the 100% Santé scheme
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If you have moved to France from the UK or US and are experiencing hearing loss, the good news is that there are comprehensive support and reimbursement systems in place to help you.
Whether your hearing loss is age-related or caused by other factors like noise exposure, high blood pressure, or your underlying health, the French healthcare system offers a pathway to managing the condition.
Consult an ENT specialist
The first step if you think you have hearing loss is to consult an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist, known in France as an oto-rhino-laryngologue (ORL).
The ENT specialist will conduct tests to assess the extent and cause of your hearing loss, and if a hearing aid is necessary, they will provide a prescription.
If the ENT doctor suspects an underlying disease, they may refer you to an otologist, a specialist in ear abnormalities and hearing disorders.
Get a prescription and quote for a hearing aid
Once your doctor has prescribed a hearing aid, you will need to obtain a quote from a qualified audioprosthetist. This step is necessary in order to get reimbursement for your hearing aid.
The quote must then be submitted to your local CPAM (state health reimbursements body), who will confirm that it meets the government’s guidelines and authorise reimbursement.
Detailed information about the hearing aid must be included on the quote such as the model, brand, medical device classification and accessories, as well as the cost of fitting and later adjustments.
Audioprosthetists are able to examine your ear canals, perform measurements of hearing ability and tolerance to loud sounds and inform you about the types of hearing aids that might best suit your needs.
Free hearing aids with the 100% Santé scheme
Under the 100% Santé reform in France, hearing aids and related accessories are fully covered for people who have a prescription as well as a 'responsible' mutuelle top-up health insurance policy.
If you choose a hearing aid from the 100% Santé range, you will have nothing to pay as the cost is divided between the state and your mutuelle.
Understand hearing aid reimbursement in France
In France there are two categories of hearing aids and your choice affects the amount of reimbursement you will receive:
Class 1 hearing aids
These models come under the 100% Santé scheme so the cost is fully covered as long as you have a responsible mutuelle (most of them fall under this category).
Prices are capped at €950 per ear for people aged 20 or over, or €1,400 if you are under 20.
Although they are entry-level products, they should be good quality in both performance and appearance and include classic BTE, remote earpiece or in-ear models.
Class 1 hearing aids come with a 30-day trial and a four-year warranty.
Class 2 hearing aids
Hearing aids in this category are not regulated in terms of pricing and do not come under the 100% Santé scheme.
They are usually higher-end devices that may feature additional features and functions.
State reimbursement generally covers 60% of up to €400 per ear, so €240 maximum. Additional coverage from your mutuelle may be available bringing the total reimbursement up to a maximum of €1,700.
If you receive CSS support for those on low incomes, are under 20 or blind, Class 2 aids are eligible for increased reimbursement.
Regular hearing tests and follow-up care
For those already using hearing aids, it is recommended you visit an ENT doctor at least once a year to assess your hearing condition and the effectiveness of your hearing aid.
Regular follow-up appointments ensure that your device is adjusted accurately for your hearing needs.
You can also test your hearing using the Höra app developed by the Fondation pour l’Audition. This free app allows you to self-assess your hearing and monitor any changes in your hearing ability.
