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 Mid-South Hearing Aid 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.

Patient Reviews

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

Excellent service. The gentleman was very good with my elderly mom. He adjusted her earring aids with no problem. I highly recommend them.

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Rene raiden, on Google

I was very pleased with my experience at Mid-South Hearing Aid, from my initial hearing test, to my follow up today after using my hearing aids the first week. Mr. Simms was an excellent clinician and I was comfortable throughout the process. I’ve experienced hearing loss, progressively for several years,...

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Dana Trent, on Google

The person that did my hearing test was very kind and patient throughout my appointment.He explained the results of the test and helped me select the best hearing aids for me that were also within the price range that my insurance covers. I highly recommend Mid South Hearing Aid Center.

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Betty Schwartz, on Google

i have my 2nd pair of aids from mid-south and am happy with the quality and the price of them. I liked the first set but due to advancing age had trouble installing the small batteries so opted for rechargeable ones. that has been over the space of several years...

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Robert McCullough, on Google

Very pleasant. Trey was very informative and answered all my questions. The rest of the staff that was contact via phone was really nice. I would recommend them.

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Emily Hosford, on Google

I have had nothing but a good experience at Mid-South Hearing specialist in the almost six years I’ve been going there. They are very professional, caring, understanding and take their time with you . They listen to you and your concerns. I highly recommend them .

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Charlotte Hoffman-Dorsey, on Google

Didnt have to wait more than 15 minutes after my appt. time. The young lady up front was very helpful as was the physician. Made me feel right at ease.

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Jannis Coley, on Google

I have been with this company for several years now. They are GREAT. Any problem is handled quickly and efficiently. You are treated as a friend not just another number. Give them a try, you will love them. .

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Janice Hamlin, on Google

Love my hearing aides! Knew that I was missing out on so much with my children, grandchildren, gatherings, etc. I have a renewed life thanks to Mid-South Georgia Hearing Center! Love the small and professional staff! I needed them for so long but felt I was too young! Age has...

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Vicki Akin, on Google

Very professional, nice as could be, very patient with me! Great experience! Thank you for hiring the best!

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Carol Hattaway, on Google

They were very helpful in helping me adjust my hearing aids. I would recommend them!!

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Rhonda Tollison, on Google

Amazing office the doctor was Amazing and now I'm just waiting to be able to hear like a normal person thank you

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Beth L, on Google

I absolutely Love my Hearing aid ...Trenton Simms at Milledgeville Office was the Greatest he helped me get the right ones for me taught me how to put them in ...showed me all the features and excellent at his job...I appreciate him so much....

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Wanda Jackson, on Google

Great experience at Mid South Hearing Center today in Milledgeville! All questions answered in a genuinely caring manner! I ordered new hearing aids and believe I will be quite happy with them!👏🏻

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connie mcgaw, on Google