Back in March we published an article covering helpful Do’s and Don’ts when travelling with your hearing aids. In that article, we touched on travellers insurance coverage for your assistive hearing devices. Since that time we have received requests for a more detailed article on that subject.
As always, here at Falls of Sound, we do our best to address all of your hearing aid concerns. Here is what our research has determined. Please remember though, we are hearing aid experts, not lawyers or insurance agents.
Are hearing aids covered under travel insurance?
In the majority of cases, your hearing aids will be covered by whatever Australian travellers insurance you may choose to purchase. However, there is a caveat to this statement that must be kept in mind. How well you are covered will depend on how expensive your hearing aids will be to replace.
How well are you covered?
Hearing aids can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. When purchasing travellers insurance, DON’T JUST LOOK AT THE TOTAL COVERAGE PROVIDED.
Most policies provide either 5,000 or 10,000 dollars of basic luggage coverage with more available for a minimal fee. While this may seem like more than enough to cover your property, be aware that per item sub-limits exists.
Sub-limits are a maximum amount that you can claim for each item that is damaged or lost. Most companies place this, per item limit, at 750 AUD. If you have a top of the line hearing aid with all the latest bells and whistles this can leave you wanting.
Alternative coverage methods
If you fall into the above category there are ways you can still protect yourself. Some travel insurance companies offer individual coverage for expensive items. In some cases, your hearing aids may be covered by your homeowner policy. But, then again they may not. You’ll have to ask.
Lastly, there are speciality insurers that may be able to help. HearInsure is one of those companies that specialize in providing insurance for expensive items.
This information is proudly provided by Falls of Sound Hearing Clinic. Hearing care for locals by locals. Contact our team with any questions you may have on 3378 5999 for Brisbane and 5443 8993 for the Sunshine Coast.