Did you know that occupational hearing loss is the most common work-related illness in the United States? It is a much bigger deal than most may realize. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that 22 million U.S. workers are exposed to potentially damaging noise levels at work each year, and about 4 million of them experience hearing loss. Whether it’s a constant hum or a sudden blast, significant noise exposure can damage the nerve endings in the inner ear, leading to permanent hearing loss.
As Baby Boomers approach retirement, the number of hearing loss claims is expected to rise. In fact, nearly half of the 76 million Baby Boomers in the United States are experiencing some degree of hearing loss. A recent survey found that 75% of Baby Boomers reported experiencing hearing difficulties in the past year, with 21% confirming hearing loss.
Hearing loss claims can be costly. The average cost of a hearing loss claim can be significant, especially when considering long-term expenses like hearing aids, medical treatments, rehabilitation and potential settlements. These costs can add up overtime, putting a strain on a company’s finances.
What can employers do? To protect both employees and their bottom line, employers should focus on preventing occupational hearing loss, controlling hearing loss claims costs and educating their workforce.
An ounce of prevention
Creating a safe working environment includes managing noise levels. Here are some strategies to help limit harmful noise exposure and prevent hearing loss:
- Substitute quieter equipment and tools: Whenever possible, use machinery that produces less noise.
- Distance employees from loud noise: Keep noisy equipment away from workstations.
- Reduce the duration, frequency or level of noise exposure: Implement work schedules that minimize exposure to loud sounds.
- Provide protective devices: Ensure employees have access to earplugs or earmuffs and enforce their proper use.
Audiometric testing is another proactive measure employers can take. Employers should conduct baseline hearing tests for new employees and follow-up screenings annually. This helps educate employees about the importance of monitoring and protecting their hearing, determines whether they had any impairment before taking the job and identifies employees who should be referred for treatment.
These practices are part of OSHA’s hearing conservation program. Employers are legally required to provide a safe working environment. Failure to address noise hazards can lead to fines, penalties or lawsuits However, many governmental organizations are exempt for fear of overburdening the public sector. Fewer than 50% of U.S. municipalities have hearing conservation programs, risking employee safety and increasing long-term costs. Implementing a comprehensive hearing conversation effort protects employees and outweighs any short-term gains.
Keeping costs in check
While occupational hearing loss claims are a small percentage of workers’ compensation claims, hearing aids are the second-most expensive piece of durable medical equipment (DME) after prosthetic devices. This is due to unregulated and fluctuating pricing. Only three U.S. states have established workers’ compensation fee schedules for hearing aids. Nearly all hearing aids sold in the United States are produced by six major manufacturers but marketed under different brand names, leading to varied price points for almost identical devices.
Knowing that employers must provide hearing aids to employees with job-related hearing loss, some clinics may exploit this by marketing the most expensive devices to workers’ compensation patients, even if they are not the best fit. One study found that over 95% of initial recommendations to workers’ compensation patients without cost controls are for the highest-priced hearing aids, while only 23% of self-paying patients purchase premium devices.
There’s also a risk of misuse of the workers’ compensation system to procure hearing aids for non-work-related losses. Limited coverage for hearing aids through Medicare, Medicaid and group health plans may lead some employees to use workers’ compensation claims to avoid out-of-pocket costs. This trend is expected to continue as the workforce ages. To protect against misuse of funds, employers must engage highly trained medical professionals to determine the compensability of occupational hearing loss claims.
Supporting employees with hearing loss
While some may misuse workers’ compensation, most occupational hearing loss claims are legitimate and should be handled with empathy and care. Employees need to be assessed and fitted by qualified professionals for appropriately priced hearing aids that suit their needs.
Hearing aid technology has advanced significantly, with features like rechargeable batteries and dual microphones. With the right device, adjustments and patient education, employees with hearing loss can remain productive and safe. Furthermore, matching employees with proper devices and ensuring regular use enhances their overall health and well-being, preventing issues like social isolation, cognitive decline and depression.
Audiology programs, like Careworks, are a great way for employers to not only control expenses but also offer high touch support to employees. With a network of 6,200 audiologists experienced in addressing occupational hearing loss, we’re able to provide workers’ compensation patients with care throughout the United States. Our providers ensure devices are cost effective, properly fitted, comfortable and easy to use with unlimited office visits included for the first year. Hearing aids issued through our program are also under warranty for five years, and our bundled approach includes all supplies for the life of the device. Our program not only saves employers about $675 per injured employee over five years, but also provides each employee with well-rounded support as they adjust to life with hearing aids.
To learn more Careworks’ audiology program, contact us.