Types of Hearing Aids
Audiologist Prescribed
Fit by a licensed professional with the loss confirmed by a comprehensive exam
Over the Counter (OTC)
Fit by the patient based on their perception of severity with no medical exam confirming the loss
Audiologist Prescribed
Mandated return policy if patient is dissatisfied with performance
Over the Counter (OTC)
No return policy proposal outlined through the FDA
Audiologist Prescribed
Verification of output levels, confirmation of appropriate fit and amplification
Over the Counter (OTC)
No verification measures to confirm if the aids are adequately performing
Audiologist Prescribed
Audiologists are able to diagnose and treat all disorders of hearing and balance and evaluate all ages and severities of loss
Over the Counter (OTC)
Only approved for adults with mild to moderate loss, with no guideline for validating if the loss is truly mild to moderate
Audiologist Prescribed
Guidance with selection, maintenance, aural rehabilitation, and technology training
Over the Counter (OTC)
No fitting assistance or guidance towards appropriate style selection or rehabilitation strategies
Audiologist Prescribed
VS
Over the Counter (OTC)
Fit by a licensed professional with the loss confirmed by a comprehensive exam
Fit by the patient based on their perception of severity with no medical exam confirming the loss
Mandated return policy if patient is dissatisfied with performance
No return policy proposal outlined through the FDA
Verification of output levels, confirmation of appropriate fit and amplification
No verification measures to confirm if the aids are adequately performing
Audiologists are able to diagnose and treat all disorders of hearing and balance and evaluate all ages and severities of loss
Only approved for adults with mild to moderate loss, with no guideline for validating if the loss is truly mild to moderate
Guidance with selection, maintenance, aural rehabilitation, and technology training
No fitting assistance or guidance towards appropriate style selection or rehabilitation strategies
How Hearing Aid Works Can Help
- OTC offerings are available in our office for patients with mild loss who do not need prescription devices
- Comprehensive exam to confirm the severity of loss and OTC vs. prescription candidacy
- Verification measures to confirm if OTC devices already purchased by the patients are appropriately amplifying
- Service and financing packages available for OTC and prescription aids making treatment affordable
Guide to Understanding Hearing Aid Options
This guide provides a comparison of consumers’ options when purchasing hearing aids. If you’re considering over-the-counter hearing aids, use this chart to evaluate your options and identify key differences when choosing between over-the-counter or traditional prescription hearing aids.
Professionally Fitted Hearing Aids
VS
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Hearing Aids
Hearing Test
A Registered Professional Will:
- Test your hearing and you will receive a copy of the audiogram test. The results will be used to help you pick a product that meets your needs.
- Check your ears for wax build up that could be blocking your hearing.
- Refer you to a specialist if your hearing tests reveal a condition that is medically treatable.
- You will not receive a hearing test when you buy over-the-counter hearing aids.
Choosing a Hearing Aid
A Registered Professional Will:
- Discuss your specific hearing needs to help you pick a hearing aid that is most appropriate for you and your budget.
- A registered professional can help you find the right hearing aid for any level of hearing loss, including severe or profound hearing loss.
Generally prescription hearing aids cost more than over-the-counter hearing aids. However, the hearing aid provider may verify your insurance to see if coverage is available.
- You will need to pick the product yourself. Different brands and models of over-the-counterhearing aids have different features, customer service availability, return policies, and set-up processes. You will need to do your research to make sure the device you pick can meet your needs.
- Over-the-counter hearing aids are generally the least expensive option available.
- Over-the-counter hearing aids must comply with regulations limiting how much sound they can amplify, meaning they are not suitable to treat sever hearing loss. These hearing aids are intended for people with mild to moderate hearing loss.
Professionally Fitted Hearing Aids
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Hearing Aids
Hearing Test
A Registered Professional Will:
- Test your hearing and you will receive a copy of the audiogram test. The results will be used to help you pick a product that meets your needs.
- Check your ears for wax build up that could be blocking your hearing.
- Refer you to a specialist if your hearing tests reveal a condition that is medically treatable.
- You will not receive a hearing test when you buy over-the-counter hearing aids.
Choosing a Hearing Aid
A Registered Professional Will:
- Discuss your specific hearing needs to help you pick a hearing aid that is most appropriate for you and your budget.
- A registered professional can help you find the right hearing aid for any level of hearing loss, including severe or profound hearing loss.
Generally prescription hearing aids cost more than over-the-counter hearing aids. However, the hearing aid provider may verify your insurance to see if coverage is available.
- You will need to pick the product yourself. Different brands and models of over-the-counterhearing aids have different features, customer service availability, return policies, and set-up processes. You will need to do your research to make sure the device you pick can meet your needs.
- Over-the-counter hearing aids are generally the least expensive option available.
- Over-the-counter hearing aids must comply with regulations limiting how much sound they can amplify, meaning they are not suitable to treat sever hearing loss. These hearing aids are intended for people with mild to moderate hearing loss.