HomeVA ProstheticsVA Handbook 1173.7 - Audiology and Speech DevicesProcedures for Issuance of Batteries

7.6. Procedures for Issuance of Batteries

a. Authorized Devices. Batteries may only be provided for use in authorized hearing aids or electronic devices.

(1) Hearing aids or electronic devices that were not provided by VA may be authorized for batteries if VA determines that the item is medically necessary and appropriate for the eligible veteran's disability. Hearing aids will be authorized by Audiology and Speech Pathology Service using the ROES Hearing Aid Registration option. Prosthetic and Sensory Aids Service will authorize electronic devices using the ROES Assistive Device Registration option.

(2) The Chief, Audiology and Speech Pathology Service will authorize hearing aids using ROES automated form, VA Form 10-2477a and electronically transmit them to the DDC. PSAS will authorize other electronic devices using the ROES Assistive Device Registration option.

b. Batteries for Veterans. Batteries will normally be furnished upon request to eligible veterans using hearing aids or other medically prescribed electronic devices.

(1) Beneficiaries who are Enrolled

(a) Veterans Residing in the U.S., U.S. Territorial Possessions, or Puerto Rico. These veterans will order replacement batteries using VA Form 2346, Veterans Request for Hearing Aid Batteries, which is enclosed with each issue of batteries shipped from DDC. If a veteran loses the form, ordering of batteries may be made by an electronic mail message, postcard, letter, or by contacting the Audiology and Speech Pathology Service.

(b) Veterans Residing or Traveling in Foreign Countries. Direct mail order issues will be made through the local Consular Office of the U.S. State Department to these veterans. VA Form 2346 will be provided with each issue and the veteran will use this form to request additional batteries. The veteran must mail the form in an envelope with the postage of the foreign country affixed when mailed through their postal service to the DDC.

(c) Allied Veterans Residing in the U.S. or Puerto Rico. Batteries will be provided as in subparagraph 6a(1)(a). A copy of the letter of authorization from the allied government concerned will be on file at the DDC to indicate eligibility for continuing service. If the allied veteran moves from outside the U.S., U.S. territorial possessions, or Puerto Rico, service will be terminated by the DDC.

(d) Veterans in Receipt of Aid and Attendance or Housebound Benefits. Batteries will be provided as in subparagraph 6a(1)(a). However, as veterans' eligibility status is subject to change due to income limitations, annual checks should be made to verify current eligibility. Termination of aid and attendance or housebound status will be reported to the DDC by the Audiology and Speech Pathology Service.

(e) Inpatients and Outpatients will be furnished batteries by the Audiology and Speech Pathology Service or the Prosthetic and Sensory Aids Service which will order the batteries using the ROES Battery Order option.

(2) Batteries for Clinics. Stocks of batteries will not normally be carried by field facilities for issuance to beneficiaries except in Audiology Clinics where a 90-day stock of batteries is authorized for hearing aid and artificial larynx fittings and for initial issuance of new instruments. Upon issuance of the device, the veteran will be provided a 4-week supply of batteries. Bulk replenishment for the Audiology and Speech Pathology Clinic will be made by using Battery Stock Order Option in ROES.

(3) Battery Issuance and Usage. Quantities of batteries furnished to all eligible beneficiaries will normally be based upon an adequate supply and the following criteria:

(a) Monaural Usage. The maximum number of batteries determined necessary for the operation of one, or the alternate operation of the two authorized hearing aids, for the hours per day and days per week that the beneficiary states the aid(s) are used.

(b) Binaural Usage. Battery issues will be adjusted as required to operate both instruments simultaneously.

(c) Artificial Larynx Usage. The number of batteries provided will be based upon the manufacturer's recommendations and history of beneficiary usage pending the completion of studies relative to power requirements.

(d) Other Electronic Devices. Supplies will be based on battery drain information and history of beneficiary usage.

(e) Excessive Battery Usage. Where there are indications of unusual battery requirement, or a beneficiary indicates that the number of batteries is inadequate, the local Audiology Clinic will be contacted and asked to review the matter with the veteran.

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