CROS and BiCROS hearing aids

Hearing solutions for unilateral or asymmetric hearing loss

Hearing loss is a common condition—affecting nearly 40 million Americans. However, many people may experience it differently. For example, hearing loss can occur in one or both ears, and hearing loss levels can range from mild to severe. Additionally, hearing loss can be asymmetric, with one ear having better or poorer hearing than the other. Hearing aids are the most common treatment for hearing loss, and CROS or BiCROS hearing aids are designed for unilateral or asymmetric hearing loss.

CROS Hearing Aids

A CROS hearing aid isn't actually a hearing aid. It is a pair of devices used to address a severe or unaidable hearing loss in one ear.

CROS stands for contralateral routing of signal.

A hearing care provider may recommend using a CROS hearing aid system if unilateral (one-sided) hearing loss occurs, where little or no benefit may be provided through a hearing aid worn on the poorer hearing ear.

A CROS system consists of one standard hearing aid worn on the better hearing ear and the CROS hearing aid, a wireless transmitter and microphone, worn on the poorer hearing ear.

The CROS hearing aid looks like a standard hearing aid, but it does not amplify sound; instead sound from the poorer hearing ear is sent via Bluetooth to the hearing aid worn on the better hearing ear.

BiCROS Hearing Aids

A BiCROS system is used when there is hearing loss in the better hearing ear.

In a BiCROS system, the sound from the poorer hearing ear is still routed to a hearing aid in the better hearing ear. The hearing aid in the better ear is programmed to adjust for the hearing loss in the better ear and to receive the signal from the CROS transmitter worn on the poorer ear.

Examples of CROS and BiCROS Hearing Aids

Almost all hearing aid manufacturers make CROS transmitters compatible with their hearing aids. These CROS hearing aids will match the manufacturer’s hearing aids in color and style.

CROS hearing aid styles range from nearly invisible custom canal hearing aids to larger Behind-the-Ear (BTE) hearing aids. CROS hearing aids are usually rechargeable but can also use standard hearing aid batteries.

Many CROS hearing aids have the same noise reduction and directionality technology as the hearing aids they pair with.

Some CROS devices even connect to Bluetooth technology, allowing users to stream phone calls and other media from their phones and other devices.

Costs of CROS and BiCROS hearing aids

When considering the cost of CROS and BiCROS hearing aids, it is important to remember that the CROS system consists of one standard hearing aid and one CROS hearing aid.

Therefore, costs will vary based on the specific model and features.

The cost of the CROS transmitter will be less than the hearing aid, and CROS transmitters can usually be paired with a variety of compatible hearing aids across different styles and technology tiers.

Are CROS hearing aids covered by insurance?

Your insurance provider may cover the cost of CROS hearing aids, depending on the specific plan. At Amplifon, we know that navigating insurance coverage can be difficult. That’s why we offer a free service to verify your insurance and help you understand your hearing benefits.

Our team of experts will work with your insurance provider to ensure you get the most out of your coverage. Check your benefits today to learn how we can help you access the hearing care you deserve.

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Who should try CROS or BiCROS hearing aids?

Are you struggling with hearing loss in one ear or experiencing asymmetrical hearing loss?

A CROS or BiCROS hearing aid may be the solution you've been looking for. These hearing aid systems are designed for individuals with unilateral hearing loss, where one ear has little to no hearing ability, or for those with asymmetrical hearing loss, where one ear has significantly better hearing than the other.

Consult a hearing health professional

If you are noticing a decrease in your ability to hear, schedule an appointment with a hearing care provider who can help diagnose the severity of your hearing loss and recommend appropriate solutions.

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