Viewpoints on the Implications of Over-The-Counter Hearing Aids

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this article is to offer diverse viewpoints on the potential impact of over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids on patients and hearing health care professionals. OTC hearing aids are discussed from the perspective of an editor of a hearing industry trade publication, an audiologist and business owner, a hearing aid user and consumer advocate, and a researcher and professor. Conclusions: Given the increasing attention surrounding OTCs, there is a need to understand diverse perspectives. The editor provides a historical context and overview of the Food and Drug Administration's OTC regulations and reflects on implications based on nearly 3 decades of experience reporting on the hearing industry. An audiologist provides her perspective on what she has observed among clinicians who appear to either resist or embrace the OTC hearing aid concept and offers recommendations for how to engage with OTCs for the benefit of patients. A hearing aid user and consumer advocate shares how OTCs might impact her own hearing care and comments on how audiologists can support consumers who choose OTCs. Lastly, a researcher offers her response to common concerns based in the literature and comments on the perceived value of OTC hearing aids. This article is concluded with a discussion on future areas of need and recommendations.