I personally know many people living with hearing loss who refuse to get a hearing aid. Sometimes it is related to the cost, having to sit in an audiology office for hours, or that they just won’t admit that they need a hearing aid. So, I was pretty excited when I heard that the FDA has approved “over the counter” hearing aids – it has been a long time coming for sure! I don’t want to get too far into the weeds, so here is the executive summary: 

The FDA is establishing a regulatory category for OTC hearing aids to improve access to hearing aid technology for Americans. OTC hearing aids are intended to address perceived mild to moderate hearing loss in people aged 18 or older. Along with the OTC category, we are finalizing multiple related changes to the overall regulatory framework for hearing aids to harmonize existing rules with the new OTC category. We have determined that the requirements set forth in this rulemaking will protect the public health by providing reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness for hearing aids, as well as promote the hearing health of Americans by lowering barriers to access and fostering innovation in hearing aid technology. 

Sure, I believe there are audiologists and ENT providers who will not be happy with or agree with this decision, however, the last sentence says it all. “Promote the hearing health of Americans by lowering barriers to access and fostering innovation in hearing aid technology”. Thank you. For all the seniors with hearing loss around the country, thank you. For all the family members who can now stop yelling at grandma and can turn the volume on the TV down, thank you! Stay well and stay informed!