Original Medicare doesn’t cover costs related to most dental care, eye care exams (for prescription glasses), and hearing aids and exams for fitting them. (U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, 2023)
Here is a list of resources where you can find dental care, eye care, or hearing aid services for free or at a lower cost.
Paying for Dental Care
Donated Dental Services Program (DDS), a Wisconsin Dental Association (WDA) program offers dental care to WI residents who are unable to afford treatment because of a limited income linked to a permanent disability or advanced age (65 or older). There is a waitlist.
• Phone: (888) 338-6852
• Online: wda.org/wda-foundations/progams#DDS
Marshfield Clinics offers financial assistance for dental services provided at a Marshfield Dental Center to patients with low income who have dental costs that insurance does not cover.
• Phone: (800) 782-8581, ext. 94475
• Online: marshfieldclinic.org/financial-assistance
N.E.W. Community Clinic dental services are offered at two sites (South Monroe Dental Clinic & N.E.W. Dental Clinic at NWTC). No one is turned away due to inability to pay. Uninsured or those with original Medicare are billed on a sliding fee scale based on income.
• In person: At any clinic location
• Phone: (920) 437-7206
• Online: newcc.health/services/dental
Paying for Eye Care
Lions Club may be able to help with the cost of an eye exam and glasses for those that qualify. For eligibility criteria and to apply, call Susan Strand at (920) 562-1900.
New Eyes helps those who cannot afford glasses on their own to purchase new prescription eyeglasses. For eligibility criteria and to apply, visit their website: new-eyes.org/application
Prevent Blindness Wisconsin – Vision Care Financial Assistance Programs has two programs (Eyes of Hope & OneSight OnSite) available to those who qualify that may be able to help assist with the cost of an eye exam and glasses if needed. For eligibility criteria and to apply, visit their website: wisconsin.preventblindness.org/healthy-eyes-and-mobile-eyes-applications-and-criteria
Paying for Hearing Aids
Telecommunications Assistance Program (TAP) provides financial assistance to low-income individuals in WI that can be used to purchase new or refurbished hearing aids. TAP funding is limited and is on a first-come, first-serve basis.
• Phone: (608) 267-7195
• Online: dhs.wisconsin.gov/odhh/tap
Wisconsin Lions Foundation’s Hearing Aid Program offers low-cost hearing aids to Wisconsinites who cannot afford to purchase them on their own and do not qualify for state-funded assistance. Also accepts donations of hearing aids.
• Phone: (877) 463-6953
• Online: wlf.info/resources
WisLoan Assistive Technology Loan Program is a statewide, alternative loan program that allows WI residents with a disability to purchase assistive technology, including hearing aids, that helps them live more independently and productively.
• In person: Options for Independent Living – 555 Country Club Rd, Green Bay
• Phone: (920) 490-0500
• Online: optionsil.com
