Some audiologists pushed back against the agency’s original proposal in October, warning that these “over-the-counter” devices might be too loud, and that consumers would lack the training to adjust them safely and effectively. The FDA responded by lowering the maximum allowable sound output for such devices, and itUntil now, consumers could buy hearing aids only from audiologists or other trained technicians.
Over-the-counter hearing aids are expected to be less expensive, as the cost will cover only the device itself . But it’s hard to say how much costs will drop until the market shakes out, said James C. Denneny III, executive vice president of the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery.
Over-the-counter hearing aids with lots of features may cost as much as $800, Penn Medicine’s Davis said.Many insurers, including Medicare, do not cover hearing aids. Some manufacturers are expected to offer online hearing tests. But audiologists caution that an online test won’t be as accurate as what they would perform in a soundproof facility in their office.
Lin, the Hopkins physician, said the criticism was off-base. Yes, a sound output of 117 or 120 decibels is very loud — equivalent to that of some chain saws, he said.
Walmart announced today it will begin offering over-the-counter hearing aids online and in Walmart Vision Centers in Pennsylvania, including those in Philadelphia. Pennsylvania is one of seven states where these OTC hearing aids are available starting today.
Hearing-aid wearers might complain that their sound quality has become muffled or crackly — and moisture is often the culprit. Here’s how to keep your devices in tip-top shape.
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