10/18/2022

Over-the-counter Hearing Aids Available in the U.S. for the First Time

Nearly 30 million Americans suffer from some degree of hearing loss

For the first time, hearing aids are available for purchase over the counter at retailers across the United States.

Starting Monday, under a historic ruling issued by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), adults with mild-to-moderate hearing loss can buy hearing aids at a store or online without a prescription, medical exam or audiologist fitting -- and for thousands of dollars less than they previously cost, according to the White House.

The FDA estimates the new rule could lower average costs for hearing aids by as much as $3,000 per pair, the White House said. Consumers are expected to save about $1,400 per individual hearing aid, or over $2,800 per pair.

Please select this link to read the complete article from ABC News.