As of August 2022, the FDA issued a final rule that establishes a new service delivery model and category of hearing aids. These are now known as over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids.
What Are OTC Hearing Aids?
OTC hearing aids are amplification devices that can be purchased without a prescription, over-the-counter. These devices are self-fit and designed for adults 18+ who have mild hearing loss in both ears. OTC hearing aids are not custom fit or programmed to your unique hearing loss, they are a one-size fits all option.
The first step to treating your hearing loss is always to see a hearing care professional. Schedule an appointment today.
FAQs About OTC Hearing Aids
If you are considering purchasing an OTC hearing aid, here is what you should know.
OTC hearing aids are designed for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss. To know what degree of hearing loss you have and if you would be a candidate for OTC hearing aids, the first step is to have your hearing tested. A hearing care professional can test your hearing and help you understand what your exact hearing needs are.
Like prescription hearing aids, OTC hearing aids need to be properly maintained in order to perform correctly. When you buy an OTC hearing aid from a retailer, you won’t receive follow-up care, cleanings, fine-tunings, or adjustments on your devices. OTC hearing aids are self-fit and will require you to change the programing on your own.
OTC hearing aids will be available mid-October 2022.
This depends on where you purchase your devices from. If you purchase an OTC hearing aid from a retailer then you will have to check their return policy.
OTC hearing aid prices will vary depending on the brand. Just like prescription hearing aids, they can range in price.
How well an OTC hearing aid performs for you will depend on your degree of hearing loss, your lifestyle (activity level), and the product you buy. If you have a mild to moderate, non-complex hearing loss and you spend the majority of your time at home in quiet environments, then an OTC hearing aid may work for you. If you have a more severe hearing loss or an active lifestyle, OTC hearing aids may not benefit you. Some OTC hearing aids will be higher quality than others, so it also depends on what type of OTC device you purchase.
Hearing Aids at Kendall Audiology
The hearing aids we carry are prescription and are medical devices regulated by the FDA. These hearing aids are professionally fine-tuned to fit your unique hearing needs based off the results of your audiogram. Prescription hearing aids can only be prescribed by a hearing care provider. These hearing aids are suitable for all degrees of hearing loss, all activity levels, and people of all ages.
Once you are fit with hearing aids, hearing loss does not stop. With prescription hearing aids, annual monitoring and appropriate adjustments are made to ensure that the prescription (programmed settings on the hearing aids) is suitable for your specific hearing needs.
How Do You Know if Prescription Hearing Aids Are Right for You?
Anyone can use a prescription hearing aid as they are tailored to your individual needs.
Expert Care for Everyone
We pride ourselves on providing expert hearing care to everyone, regardless of your degree of hearing loss or lifestyle. If you have noticed problems with your hearing, please contact us. We would be happy to evaluate your hearing ability and help you find a hearing aid that will allow you to hear your loved ones again.
Connect with a Hearing Professional
Ready to take control of your hearing health? Contact us today to schedule an appointment to have your hearing evaluated!