JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. –
Military retirees and dependents who are not eligible to receive hearing aids through the Veterans Administration (VA) may purchase them, at a reduced cost, at some military treatment facilities through the Retiree At-Cost Hearing Aid Program (RACHAP). This is a “space-available” option and is not a covered service by TRICARE or Medicare. Patients pay the manufacturer directly.
Currently, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center (WRNMMC) and Malcolm Grow Medical Clinics and Surgery Center (MGMCSC) offer this program within the National Capital Region (NCR), however, specific restrictions apply at each facility. All eligible retired beneficiaries, within and outside of the NCR, are invited to use the program on a “space- available” basis.
“The cost for hearing aids at a military facility is approximately $750, making it an incredibly popular option for military retirees who are not eligible to receive them through the VA,” said Dr. Alisa Genualdi, Audiologist, 779th Medical Group.
The RACHAP program at MGMCSC is limited to military retirees only, and the following 4-step process is required:
- Obtain a referral from your Primary Care Manager and call the Appointment Line at 1 (888) 999-1212 to schedule a full diagnostic hearing evaluation at the Audiology Clinic. An Audiologist will determine if you are a candidate for hearing aids
- Schedule additional diagnostic tests or an ENT evaluation as recommended
- Schedule an appointment with an Audiologist to select a specific device
- Schedule an appointment to fit hearing aids when they arrive
For more information call the MGMCSC Audiology Clinic at (240) 612-1868.
Dependents of retirees may seek care at WRNMMC on a case-by-case basis by calling (301) 295-7840.
If you believe your hearing loss is service connected, you may qualify for hearing aid services through the Department of Veteran’s Affairs at no cost. Contact the Fort Meade VA Audiology Clinic at (410) 305-5300 or call the VA Health Resource Center line at (877) 222-8387.