OTC 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 is it Different 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 Echo Hearing & Audiology, 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.

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.

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.

Schedule Appointment

Patient Reviews

Read a Few of Our Google Reviews

4.9 out of 5 Stars based on 701 Reviews on Google.

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

Dr Karyn Flynn is very knowledgable,professional and caring. She has been my Audiologist for several years. She is so confident and helpful which has made it much easier for me to continue to wear my hearing aides. Thank you Dr. Flynn.

Reviewer Profile Photo Nancy Hopkins, on Google

Very professional and knowledgeable about hearing and listening to your needs

Reviewer Profile Photo Harry Baldwin, on Google

From scheduling with Georgie to the hearing test with a wonderful audiologist named Theresa, its been easy, quick and everyone has been incredibly friendly and very knowledgeable! Theresa went above and beyond when she helped my father with his hearing aids. She was so compassionate and did everything she could...

Reviewer Profile Photo MarkandKelly McIntyre, on Google

They're absolutely wonderful and there to help you in whatever you need Wouldn't go anywhere else!

Reviewer Profile Photo Ned Braun, on Google

Upon arriving at this business that was referred to me from Molina……this place wasn’t even in network. I checked before scheduling the appointment. So, had to pay out of pocket. The Audiologist that took care of us was very professional and nice to boot. I would recommend this business if...

Reviewer Profile Photo Donna Bolon, on Google

I was very please with my total experience.

Reviewer Profile Photo Angela Jones, on Google

No waiting, easy access. Emmi is very thorough. She answered my questions with explanations that were easy to understand and shared good advice on the warranty and future update options.

Reviewer Profile Photo Donna Vorce, on Google

Knowledgeable, friendly and always on time.

Reviewer Profile Photo Valerie Fridley, on Google

Getting new hearing aids and we have dealt here before. Wonderful place. Always greeted with a warm hello and have answered our concerns clearly.

Reviewer Profile Photo Judith Harrow, on Google

Very Positive first visit- HA’s repaired- I can hear well again, Emmy was very kind and effecient

Reviewer Profile Photo Jane Shoop, on Google

I have been going to Echo Hearing for the past 18 years. They are very attentive and they care about their clients. Karyn is the best…… I would highly recommend Echo Hearing for your hearing needs.

Reviewer Profile Photo Jackie Dailey, on Google

I had a very nice experience at Echo in Worthington. Dr Theresa was very helpful, friendly, personable and professional. She gave me a hearing test and setup my hearing aids that I had purchased on vacation perfectly. They work much better now and I am really glad I went to...

Reviewer Profile Photo Kenny Puseker, on Google

Theresa was wonderful to work with, gave me all options available to make a decision for new hearing aids. Would highly recommend this company.

Reviewer Profile Photo Mary Brosnan, on Google

Testing was carried out efficiently, as was the rest of the office visit.Dr. Flynn was very courteous and helpful.

Reviewer Profile Photo Barry Bennett, on Google

Thank you for your overwhelming service.

Reviewer Profile Photo Sarah Elliott, on Google

Excellent source of information about my hearing loss. They keep my hearing aids clean and functioning at 100%.

Reviewer Profile Photo Jeffrey Kaufman, on Google

Great they have really helpel just love the doctor that makes my hearing better even if she smacks me up side my head.

Reviewer Profile Photo JERRY KNOBLAUCH, on Google

Very nice people

Reviewer Profile Photo Mary Dobbins, on Google

Very professional and open staff. Answered all my questions.

Reviewer Profile Photo Jim Lockwood, on Google

Wonderful experience. I’ve been a patient since 2007 and they have always been very knowledgeable and considerate of my hearing.

Reviewer Profile Photo Steve Hobie, on Google
ATTENTION: Grove City patients – we are moving our office to a new location on May 2, 2026. The office will be located at 3148 Broadway, Suite 307. Please call with questions at 614-457-5848.

Choose Your Location

Select your preferred location by clicking on the circle next to the address.