Even though hearing loss is one of the most common disabilities, it is also one of the most misunderstood and underestimated disability. It has been called the "invisible" condition because it is not possible to "see" a hearing loss directly, only its effects upon behavior and communication. The fact that these effects can be so variable depending upon the individual and the situation is what makes hearing loss such a confusing condition.

In short, it is not a condition that should be treated casually, with haphazard, ill-advised and superficial measures taken to ameliorate its effects. Such an approach trivializes the impact that impaired communication can have upon the life and well being of the affected person. Given the significance of the sense of hearing, HLAA believes that people with hearing loss require the care of qualified professionals who follow best professional practices.

In these pages you will find information and news about laws that have an impact on the purchase of hearing aids, cochlear implants and other implantable devices and related services. We also provide information on Medicaid and Medicare. And we include information and news from the states regarding local law impacting insurance coverage of hearing health care products and services.