OVER-THE-COUNTER hearing aids OTC
OTC hearing aids
For mild hearing losses
These devices have been available in America for over a year with mixed reviews. Originally designed to be a cheaper alternative to traditional hearing aids for ‘first-time’ users with a mild hearing issue, they do not require any medical approval or programming by an Audiologist. They do have to comply with many safety aspects regarding over-amplification running the risk of further damaging hearing and their fitting may mask a more sinister problem with hearing, that could require surgery.
Locally, a few OTC models are now available in Australia. Most will connect to a smartphone via a dedicated App. The App will allow a quasi-hearing test to be undertaken with the earpieces in the ears (a very quiet room is needed). The smartphone then becomes a remote-control device for the OTC aids.
A hearing aid fitted by an Audiologist occupies several appointments – see Hearing assessment. A fuller hearing assessment is undertaken to look at why the hearing is not good. A discussion will then decide whether amplification is the correct approach and the best devices for that hearing loss pattern and lifestyle needs. Note that ‘best’ and ‘most expensive’ are not always the same. The devices are then fitted to the individual’s prescription using Real Ear Measurements as a Gold Standard and followed up with further appointments to ‘fine tune’ the settings. Every year, a review is suggested to accommodate hearing changes.
Traditionally, costs for all these sessions have been lumped together with the cost of the hearing aids. This has put off many who could benefit greatly from amplification. The lower OTC hearing aid cost does not include any other services or appointments and so creates a dilemma for Hearing Care Practitioners. We should fit hearing aids at the earliest opportunity to help maintain a healthy lifestyle, keeping the brain stimulated. However, costs are a major factor in taking the plunge.
We do have OTC hearing aids available but would only recommend these after a hearing assessment (to make sure there are no medical contra-indications) and discussion about lifestyle needs. We do not want to risk a poor fitting and subsequent total rejection of hearing aids for the next 7 years!