Man looking at over the counter hearing aids

What are OTC Hearing Aids?

OTC Hearing Aids

Hearing aids are devices designed to improve your hearing by making sound audible. Hearing aids are a great solution for those with hearing loss, tinnitus, or another hearing disorder. As of August 2022, the FDA issued a final rule that establishes a new service delivery model and category of hearing aids. These are over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids.

What is an OTC Hearing Aid?

Over-the-counter hearing aids are self-fit hearing aids designed for adults 18+ who have mild hearing loss in both ears. If you have a tight budget and a mild hearing loss, then OTC hearing aids may be a good fit for you.

When are OTC Hearing Aids Going to Be Available?

OTC hearing aids will be available mid-October 2022.

OTC Compared to Prescription

Prescription hearing aids are classified as medical devices and are regulated by the FDA. Prescription hearing aids are fit to your unique ear shape and hearing needs by an audiologist or hearing instrument specialist. These hearing aids are good for any type or degree of hearing loss for people of all ages.

According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, if you have any of the following health conditions, a prescription hearing aid will be better for you:

  • Unilateral (one-sided) hearing loss
  • Sudden recent hearing loss
  • Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
  • Have taken medication known to cause hearing loss
  • Have a history of chemotherapy or radiation
  • Constant pain in the ears
  • Frequent dizziness

We Are Here to Help You

No matter what your hearing needs are, we are here to help you. Whether you would like to explore OTC or prescription hearing aid options, we would be happy to go over the differences and help you find the right device for your lifestyle.

If you think a hearing aid could help you, we encourage you to come in for a hearing test. We can evaluate your hearing, determine the severity of your hearing loss, and help you find a device that will allow you to hear what you want again. Contact us today to schedule your appointment or if you have any questions about OTC hearing aids.