Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids: What You Need to Know

Last Tuesday, the FDA ruled to make hearing aids available over-the-counter. Currently, the FDA estimates that 30 million Americans experience hearing loss, but only 6 million seek medical help, due to barriers such as high costs and limited access to audiologists.  As prescriptions and costly medical exams will no longer be required to purchase the devices, this long awaited and highly anticipated decision marks a huge win for millions of adults experiencing hearing loss. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids will be available for purchase online and in stores starting this October, when the final ruling takes effect.
• It is estimated that OTC hearing aids will cost between $300-500 per device, far more affordable than the current price ($1,400-5,000) to purchase a device.  
• OTC hearing aids are intended for adults with mild to moderate hearing loss, symptoms which include:
• Difficulty understanding conversations in groups, with background noise, or when you can’t see who is talking.
• Having trouble hearing on the telephone.
• Having to significantly increase the volume of television or radio loud enough for others to complain.
• Friends or family complain that you don’t understand speech, and you ask them to repeat often.

However, if you have difficulty hearing in quiet environments or trouble hearing loud sounds like motor vehicle noises, it is recommended that you see a hearing care professional. 

When looking to purchase an OTC hearing aid this Fall, make sure to consider all qualities of the hearing aid, to ensure that you buy the best one that fits your needs. These qualities can include battery life, bluetooth connection and app pairing (if you feel familiar/comfortable with these functions and find them convenient), and easy to reach customer support services.