With over-the-counter or OTC hearing aids being among the most anticipated new technologies to hit store shelves in years, the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) is advising consumers to be smart shoppers if they’re intending to purchase one of these products for themselves or for a loved one.  

OTC hearing aids have been sold in the United States only since mid-October 2022. They are intended for adults with self-perceived mild to moderate hearing loss. 

ASHA recommends that anyone purchasing an OTC product first get a hearing evaluation from a certified audiologist (such evaluations are generally covered by insurance, even if hearing aids are not). This is important because people typically misjudge their degree of hearing loss. A hearing evaluation also can rule out other medical conditions that could be causing hearing loss.

Joining us to share more about these developments is Lindsay S. Creed, AuD, CCC-A, an audiologist who is currently working as an Associate Director of Audiology Practices at the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).