Over-the-Counter (OTC) Hearing Aids

A New Class of Hearing Aids

FDA Approves Over-the-Counter (OTC) Hearing Aids

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) ruled on August 16, 2022, legalization of ‘Over-the-Counter’ or OTC hearing aids that will take effect within 60 days (estimated mid-October 2022). These products will be available online and in stores to customers without the need of a licensed hearing professional to test or fit the products. What does this mean for you, and how are these products different from hearing aids currently available today?

What Does Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids Mean?

Over-the-Counter hearing aids are a new class of hearing devices. Different from traditional or prescription hearing aids, these hearing devices do not require a hearing test or licensed hearing professional to fit. Over-the-Counter hearing aids come with general settings with the ability to make small, limited adjustments, typically lumping low and high frequencies. There is also a mandatory volume control. These hearing aids are only designed to assist someone with mild to moderate self-perceived hearing loss.

Benefits of

Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids

  • Price Tag: Traditional hearing aids are seen as expensive because the cost includes the devices along with the service and expertise of the hearing professional.
  • One Size Fits Most: Over-the-Counter hearing aids are designed for the user to be able to open the box and use the product immediately. This is possible with a generic fit and removal of customizations. Most Over-the-Counter devices come with simple buttons and/or a smartphone app connection for customizations and volume control.
  • Combining Safety and Help: The FDA passed a law limiting the power and output of Over-the-Counter hearing aids for patient safety. These devices are beneficial for patients with mild to moderate self-perceived hearing loss. This means that a patient does not need a hearing test to purchase. Patients still can purchase an Over-the-Counter device after going to a certified hearing professional for a hearing exam.

Limitations of

Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids

  • Unknown Hearing Loss or Issues: Much like eyesight, hearing loss comes in a variety of types and pose different challenges. Hearing loss comes in a variety of types including sensorineural, conductive, and mixed hearing loss; each type of hearing loss impacts different frequencies and may require differing treatment methods. The lack of a physical ear examination may lead to other unnoticed potential issues that can show similar hearing loss symptoms such as ear drum damage or simple wax buildup.
  • One Size Fit Most: Over-the-Counter hearing aids are like generic reading glasses. They are one size fits most with limited customization for comfort. These devices may help if you need a mild correction but will not be specifically designed for your exact needs. Your ears are unique and what you might find comfortable may not be comfortable to the next patient.
  • Lack of Service: Over-the-Counter hearing aids come with little to no professional service or assistance. For the most part, it is a do-it-yourself solution. The lack of regular cleanings, verification, and monitoring of your specific hearing loss leaves room for doubt. Is this device truly helping me? How well does this adjustment fit my needs? Is there a bigger issue or wax build up? These questions plus more stay unanswered.

How Do Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids Differ from Traditional Prescription Hearing Aids?

Traditional prescription hearing aids are specifically customized for your needs and comfort.  A licensed hearing professional takes you through a series of physical exams and audio tests to understand your specific hearing needs. The hearing professional will help you determine which hearing aids are right for you and your lifestyle. They can adjust the devices frequencies to match your specific hearing loss needs. The hearing aid can be physically molded to your ear for added comfort resulting in the most natural sounding hearing solution possible.

What Services are Included with Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids?

Typically, Over-the-Counter hearing aids are self-fit with no assistance or support from a licensed hearing professional. At Better Hearing Center, we believe that everyone should experience the joy of hearing. That is why we are offering annual exams and troubleshooting appointments to all hearing aid wearers. Regardless of what manufacturer or where you purchased your hearing aids, we want to help ensure you are hearing to the best of your ability.

To find out more about our services, click here.

What Levels of Hearing Loss are Treatable with Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids?

The FDA limits Over-the-Counter hearing aids to mild-to-moderate self-identified hearing loss only. This is to protect patients from potential harm of over amplification which can result in permanent damage and significant hearing loss. Prescription hearing aids that are fit by a licensed hearing professional can work for all levels of hearing loss from mild to profound.

Are Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids Right for Everyone?

Hearing is essential to our everyday lives. We encourage annual monitoring of your hearing health to keep a watchful eye on changes. Getting the support you need early will ensure you maintain connected to those around you and so you can hear your very best.

There is a new category of hearing aids that are now available over-the-counter. This category will be a great option for many, but is not right for everyone. It’s a good idea to consult a hearing professional on your unique hearing loss and needs to guide you to the right solution for you.

OTC

Hearing Aids

No professional fitting or support provided.

For ages 18+

No hearing evaluation is required

One size fits most

No state requirements for return policy

For perceived mild to moderate hearing loss

Come with self-guided instructions

Prescription

Hearing Aids

Hearing aid programmed and supported by a professional

For all ages

A hearing evaluation is required

Standard and customized options are available

Return policy is mandated by the state

For any degree of hearing loss; hearing aid is programmed to the individual hearing loss profile (audiogram)

Follow-up care and instructions provided by a professional

How Will I Know What My Hearing Loss is?

There are several online hearing tests available, and you can try ours here! However, they are not diagnostic medical tests. The only way to determine hearing loss or if you may need hearing aid solutions, is to schedule a hearing exam with a licensed hearing professional. Both an audiogram and a physical examination are required to determine hearing loss. 

Clinically, hearing loss falls into different degrees. Mild, moderate, severe, and profound are some of the most common degrees with variations in between. Your hearing loss degree depends on your ability to hear different pitches (frequencies) at different volumes (decibels dB). Hearing threshold of mild loss is 26-40 dB, moderate is 41-55 dB, severe is 71-90 dB and profound is over 91dB.

No matter what type of hearing aids you choose to try, our hearing aid specialist(s) can help ensure all your hearing healthcare needs are addressed over time as your hearing demands change. The first step would be to call or book your appointment online for a complimentary hearing screening.

Hearing loss is as unique as a fingerprint. While Over-the-Counter hearing aids may be a starting point for some, there are many considerations when choosing the correct treatment for your hearing loss. We recommend partnering with a hearing health professional to find the solution that is right for you. Get the individual treatment you need, schedule your appointment today.

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Patient Reviews

Read a Few of Our Google Reviews

5 out of 5 Stars based on 334 Reviews on Google.

Read what some of our patients have to say about our staff and our office!

Had great service there even when I was at falt for not making sure that the hearing aids were not plugged with wax they've done good bye me I give them a big thumbs up

Reviewer Profile Photo Brian Olson, on Google

Excellent service. Tom answered all my questions, cleaned and checked my hearing aids in a friendly and timely manner. Your professionalism is greatly appreciated. I would highly recommend them for all of your hearing needs.

Reviewer Profile Photo JoAnn, on Google

Friendly and prompt service

Reviewer Profile Photo Gary Dirks, on Google

Everyone there is very considerate and helpful.

Reviewer Profile Photo Mary Veglahn, on Google

This was my first visit - I found the office was very clean and tidy, and I was immediately taken care of. I was dealt with in a very courteous and professional manner, and I trust that the results were true, as they expanded on what my hearing issues are....

Reviewer Profile Photo Deb Pollei, on Google

The hearing test was not difficult and I was told that my hearing was ok. I was also told to ask a nurse at Mayo Clinic to remove extra wax from both of my ears.

Reviewer Profile Photo Deanna Neubauer, on Google

Better Hearing Center gave me quick service when I came to their office to have a hearing aid rubber pod replaced. The one I had became loose. I did not need an appointment for this service. I went there at my convenience and they waited on me immediately. This was...

Reviewer Profile Photo char hargis, on Google

I met with Sean for my first visit here. He was friendly and put me at ease as he talked about my severe hearing loss. He helped me decide on a new pair of hearing aids to replace my old ones that were giving me problems. I will recommend him...

Reviewer Profile Photo Dale Wollenzien, on Google

Sean provided me with excellent information on how my hearing test results could be used to modify my existing hearing aids. My hearing aids were modified and I feel my hearing has been improved. Thank you Sean.

Reviewer Profile Photo Joe, on Google

My mother had a very positive experience with the Better Hearing team. They listened to her and worked with her to obtain a solution that was right for her.

Reviewer Profile Photo Linda Marks, on Google

Great service. Walked right in and was seen promptly. Will definitely be back!

Reviewer Profile Photo Marsha & Bob White, on Google

Ended up really liking this place. No one likes to admit getting old or having a health problem, but I really enjoyed getting my hearing tested after I finally got it done. The staff is outstanding, polite, kind, understanding, friendly and take the time to make sure you understand what...

Reviewer Profile Photo don owens, on Google

Sean was thorough with hearing test and informative with results. He was patient and easy to understand.

Reviewer Profile Photo Diane Olson, on Google

The people at Better Hearing make all the difference in the world. Always friendly, very helpful, and never judgemental. Thank you very much for your help!

Reviewer Profile Photo Duane Genz, on Google

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