Over-the-counter hearing aids: What you need to know
As of Oct. 17, 2022, the FDA has approved over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss who are 18 years or older. Deciding whether to choose an OTC hearing aid or a prescription hearing aid depends on several factors. Here鈥檚 what you need to consider:
Why You Should Consider a Hearing Test First
Before purchasing any hearing aid, it鈥檚 important to start with a diagnostic hearing test conducted by an audiologist. Audiologists are healthcare professionals with specialized training in hearing evaluations and hearing aid management. While some OTC devices offer at-home hearing tests, audiologists can more accurately assess your hearing thresholds and provide evidence-based recommendations.
Hearing tests are covered by most insurance plans, and many now include hearing aid benefits, which were historically unavailable.
Pros of OTC Hearing Aids
Lower cost: Typically, OTC hearing aids are less expensive than prescription hearing aids. (However, many hearing clinics offer affordable prescription options that are comparable in price.)
Convenience: OTC hearing aids can be purchased at pharmacies, grocery stores, or online, making them easy to access without the need for a formal appointment.
A good starting point: For individuals with mild hearing loss, OTC hearing aids can be a useful entry point before considering prescription devices.
Cons of OTC Hearing Aids
No personalized fitting: OTC hearing aids don鈥檛 offer the personalized fitting that audiologists provide. The shape of your ear canal can greatly affect sound quality. Audiologists use specialized tools to tailor hearing aids to your unique ear shape.
Limited customer support: Without professional guidance, users may struggle with inserting, removing, and cleaning the devices, which can impact performance. Even minor issues like earwax buildup can significantly degrade sound quality.
Limited selection options: While there are various OTC devices, many are one-size-fits-all or offer limited customization. A more individualized approach tends to yield better results.
Inaccurate at-home tests: At-home hearing tests can be unreliable due to factors like earwax or background noise, leading to inaccurate results.
Potential undiagnosed ear issues: Audiologists often detect ear abnormalities during routine hearing tests. Missing this step may result in undiagnosed medical conditions that need treatment.
Choosing the right fit: The success of an OTC device depends on selecting the correct style and earpiece. Without professional guidance, patients may struggle to make an informed choice.
Lack of counseling: Audiologists provide valuable education and support for patients and their families on coping with hearing loss and improving communication skills鈥攕omething OTC options lack.
How to Choose the Right OTC Hearing Aid
If you decide that an OTC hearing aid is the right choice for you, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Our Recommendations:
Look for an OTC device that offers:
- A self-administered hearing test or allows you to input the results from a professional hearing test.
- Adjustable sound quality via a smartphone app or remote control.
- A return policy of at least 30 days.
- Customer support availability for troubleshooting.
Important Note:
We do not recommend specific brands, but encourage you to explore available options when appropriate.
If your experience with OTC devices isn鈥檛 satisfactory, consider scheduling an appointment with an audiologist and trying a prescription hearing aid. Results can vary, and professional guidance may lead to better outcomes.