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.

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Patient Reviews

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

Karyn was SO kind and compassionate towards my 83yr old Mother...the place felt peaceful and nice 😊 My Mother walked out greatly encouraged

Reviewer Profile Photo Shelley Greene, on Google

Everyone was very professional. Emmi is very knowledgeable, sweet and kind answered all my questions and steered me in the right direction as if I was her own father. She helped me with what was best for me and not for money. Thanks Emmi

Reviewer Profile Photo G S, on Google

Karyn is always eager to help me understand my hearing aids and answers any questions we ask🙏🏻

Reviewer Profile Photo Irma Westlake, on Google

Visited for my 6 month check up and cleaning which to my surprise included a software update and a slight volume adjustment. Professional and personable approach that was on time as promised. I highly recommend.

Reviewer Profile Photo Mark Hampshire, on Google

I was pleased with the testing procedure. The facilities were clean with ample parking. I didn’t know the step by step way to proceed to actually get my devices. Perhaps it was explained and I just didn’t h ear

Reviewer Profile Photo andrea adkins, on Google

They do a great job.Friendly, Caring, kind. efficient and professional. Also very convenient. I have gone to them for years I am very happy with their service.

Reviewer Profile Photo Pat Parren, on Google

I was quite surprised when I was told there would be a charge of $65.00 with each visit even if it were to adjust the hearing aide. I had never heard of any place that i had consulted with charging you. My 4 stars went for the doctor that i...

Reviewer Profile Photo elyse goldstein, on Google

Great audiologist. Thank you.

Reviewer Profile Photo Teresa Wilgus, on Google

Good service very helpful and kind

Reviewer Profile Photo David Child, on Google

The staff was polite, professional and knowledgeable. They explained everything and worked with my schedule.

Reviewer Profile Photo Kim Hebron, on Google

I recently had my first visit with Dr. Hanerhof, and I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. He was professional, courteous, and truly cared about my concerns. Unlike many doctors who just rush through appointments, Dr. Hanerhof took the time to listen and explain everything clearly and he was...

Reviewer Profile Photo Penny Meskan, on Google

I bring my elderly Mother to Jim primarily for wax removal. Jim is always patient and attentive with her as she has dementia. The office is clean and perfectly appointed. Friendly staff, and I wouldn’t go anywhere else!

Reviewer Profile Photo Michele Apple, on Google

I really like Karyn as my audiologist, she is thorough and listens to my concerns. In addition she is personable with a good sense of humor.

Reviewer Profile Photo michael ames, on Google

My experience was very good. Dr.Flynn was very thorough and explained my hearing situation very well.

Reviewer Profile Photo Jim Merkowitz, on Google

Best hearing aids and the best service I've ever had regarding that.

Reviewer Profile Photo Paul Whitt, on Google

Dr Emmi was very professional and kind.

Reviewer Profile Photo Yvonne Fisher, on Google

Em is was great- friendly, engaged and shared information thoroughly. Prompt and on time! Highly recommend.

Reviewer Profile Photo patti cotter, on Google
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