Considering Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids? Here’s What You Should Know

There’s been a lot of buzz surrounding the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)’s recent ruling on over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids, which has made it possible for adults 18 and older to buy certain products in stores and online without a prescription.

While these products are a safe option for certain adults with mild to moderate hearing loss, there are important things to consider before purchasing these devices. Audiologist Jessica Jenkins, AuD, with LVPG Ear, Nose and Throat, shares what everyone should know about this latest development.

OTC hearing aids are easily accessible, with many large retail chains already offering them both in stores and online (or planning to). On average, OTC options also tend to be cheaper than prescription devices (which often aren’t covered by health insurance policies), making hearing aids accessible for more people than ever before.  

“OTC devices may be a good option for certain adults with minor hearing difficulties, but there are some downsides that you should be aware of before buying them,” Jenkins says.

OTC hearing aids are specifically meant for adults with mild to moderate hearing loss. However, without getting a professional hearing test done before purchase, it can be difficult to tell if you will truly benefit from them.

“While the FDA requires labeling on these devices that explains what mild to moderate hearing loss sounds like, it can still be difficult to determine the level of your hearing impairment and if you will get any benefit from an OTC product,” Jenkins says. “In addition, without evaluation from an ear, nose and throat specialist and audiologist, there’s no way to know if your hearing loss is being caused by a condition that should be treated with medications or surgery. If that’s the case, OTC products won’t fix the underlying issue or make much difference in your hearing.”

There also will not be hands-on support for your OTC hearing aids, which will leave you on your own to figure out how to use them and make sure they fit properly.

“When you purchase hearing aids from an audiologist, a custom-fitting appointment and training sessions on how to insert, use, and care for them are included in the price. Unfortunately, with OTC devices, that support isn’t part of the package,” Jenkins says. “In addition, with prescription hearing aids, we are able to tailor the devices to each person’s specific hearing needs and update them as their hearing changes over the years. OTC options may allow for some basic adjusting, but nothing tailored to your specific hearing loss.”

If you are considering OTC hearing aids, Jenkins recommends getting a diagnostic hearing test to make sure your hearing impairment isn’t more serious than mild or moderate and that it isn’t being caused by a treatable condition. Even though it’s not required for OTC purchase, it will put you on the right track for your specific hearing needs.

“If you are experiencing a problem with your hearing, these initial consultations and tests are often covered by health insurance plans,” Jenkins says.

Even if you do have mild to moderate hearing loss and qualify for the OTC option, Jenkins still recommends discussing the pros and cons of prescription hearing aids with your audiologist.

“Some people find out their health insurance policy covers more than they thought, or they qualify for assistance through Pennsylvania’s Office of Vocational Rehabilitation,” Jenkins says. “If you are someone who might benefit from an OTC device, we will make sure you know that’s an option during our discussion, too.”

If you do decide on the OTC route, Jenkins recommends purchasing devices with a trial or exchange period as well as a warranty. She also recommends looking for devices that are adjustable to the shape of your ear and don’t completely block your natural hearing while they are in. Also, before purchasing a device, be sure to check its packaging to make sure it has been FDA approved as an OTC hearing aid.

“If you try OTC hearing aids and they just aren’t working for you, you can always make an appointment with an ENT specialist or audiologist as your next step,” Jenkins says. “We will fully evaluate your hearing loss, and if needed, support you throughout your prescription hearing aid journey.”