OVER-THE-COUNTER (OTC)
HEARING AIDS
At Audiology & Hearing Aid Services, in addition to our prescription hearing aids and diagnostic testing, we are now offering OTC Hearing Aids, Hearing Tests for OTC, and Services for OTC.
Our services extend from newborns to great-great grandparents. We offer the technology and expertise to treat the mildest to the most severe hearing loss.
Our friendly and compassionate team are always happy to help.
We are here to help you HEAR.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Food and Drug Administration recently ruled that hearing aids can be purchased over-the-counter (OTC) for some types of hearing loss. The hearing aids can be purchased by consumers from various resources such as local retail stores, online, and at an Audiology office, to name a few.
How do I know if I can benefit from OTC hearing aids?
The best way to know if OTC hearing aids will work for you is to see an audiologist for a comprehensive hearing evaluation. An audiologist is a licensed, certified professional who specializes in helping patients with hearing loss.
Can children benefit from OTC hearing aids?
No, children should NEVER use an OTC hearing aid. You must be 18 years or older to wear OTC hearing aids.
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Do I HAVE to see an Audiologist?
No, you are not required to have a hearing evaluation to purchase an OTC hearing aid. OTC hearing aids are made available to consumers that have a perceived mild to moderate hearing loss. An OTC hearing aid may help enhance speech and provide improvements in communication for people who may not need hearing assistance in every listening situation but experience occasional difficulty hearing. OTC hearing aids are purchased based on your OWN judgment of hearing loss, which can be easily over or under estimated.
IMPORTANT: OTC hearing aids will only work for you if your hearing loss is mild to moderate. The most accurate diagnosis is made by an audiologist.
How do I know what is a MILD TO MODERATE hearing loss?
Many people are not able to accurately determine their degree of hearing loss. A diagnostic hearing test completed by an audiologist will provide accurate information on both the degree and type of hearing loss. An audiologist can explain what part of the ear (outer, middle, or inner) that is causing your hearing loss.
Are hearing TESTS covered by health insurance?
Yes, the majority of health insurances cover at least one hearing test.
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Are hearing AIDS covered by health insurance?
Hearing aid coverage varies by insurance companies and plans. Some insurances provide coverage for prescription hearing aids whole or in part. Many insurance companies are now offering reimbursements, discount plans, or third party options. The FDA Rule for the OTC hearing aid became effective October 17, 2022, we have not received direction at this time if insurance companies will cover OTC hearing aids.
So what's the difference between an OTC hearing aid and a Prescription hearing aid?
OTC hearing aids have limited loudness output, minimal customization options, and less features compared to prescription hearing aids. Prescription hearing aids, are hearing aids that are provided by an Audiologist based on an audiological evaluation, the degree of hearing loss, and type of hearing loss. Prescription hearing aids offer advanced customization, detailed functionality, and greater computer processing.
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When should I seek a medical consultation before buying an OTC hearing aid?
A medical consultation from your primary care physician, ear, nose, and throat physician, or audiologist is recommended before the use of any medical or amplification device. However, if you have any of the following medical conditions, a consult is a must:
• ear deformity
• fluid, pus, or blood coming from the ear
• hearing loss or ringing (tinnitus) in one ear or noticeably different in one ear
• pain or discomfort in the ear
• history of excessive earwax or feeling that something is in the ear
• pain or discomfort in the ear
• sudden, quickly worsening, or fluctuating hearing loss
• vertigo or severe dizziness