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Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids vs Audiologist Prescribed Hearing Aids

By Kevin Kock, Au.D.
Audiology Consultants, P.C.

As an audiologist, many patients have been recently asking about over the counter (OTC) hearing aids. They wonder about the quality, what happens if they do not work, and feel like they just do not know if OTC is a good option for them. While OTCs may seem like an affordable or even convenient option, a closer look reveals the potential risks of opting for OTC solutions over seeking the expertise of qualified and trained audiologists.

1. Personalized Care:

Hearing loss is a complex condition. Everybody’s ears and hearing are as unique as a fingerprint. Audiologists undergo extensive training to provide tailored solutions based on each patient’s unique needs and differences. Typically, they do this with the use of prescribed hearing aids, talking with their patients about the situations where they struggle, and collaborating to make a plan that works for each person. In contrast, OTC devices offer a generic approach, potentially missing nuances that audiologists are trained to identify and address.

2. Quality Assurance:

An audiologist works to professionally prescribe hearing aids. These hearing aids are subject to strict regulations, quality control, and are verified to ensure the physical fit and volume is appropriate for each person. With OTC devices, there is not a professional to ensure that things are working appropriately, potentially resulting in subpar sound quality and discomfort. Audiologists ensure that patients receive high-quality devices from reputable manufacturers, ensuring optimal and quality performance.

3. Comprehensive Assessment:

Audiologists conduct thorough hearing assessments to diagnose the type and extent of hearing loss. They can identify underlying medical issues that might require immediate attention. Relying solely on OTC devices may lead to misdiagnosis and delay necessary medical treatment. In fact, it is recommended that people have hearing tests to assess if an OTC device is appropriate for them before investing time and energy into a product that does not provide enough power.

4.  Ongoing Support:

Effective hearing care goes beyond the initial fitting. Audiologists provide continuous support, including device adjustments, counseling, and communication strategies. OTC users miss out on this crucial aspect of care, which may hinder their overall hearing improvement. An audiologist is there every step of the way and can help ensure that not only are you set up for success but that you continue to be as successful as possible with hearing aids.

5.  Emotional Well-being:

Hearing loss can impact emotional health and well-being. Audiologists offer a personalized touch and provide counseling and guidance to help patients cope with the emotional challenges of hearing loss. OTC solutions lack this vital emotional support.

In conclusion, while OTC hearing aids may seem convenient, the expertise of audiologists far outweighs the perceived benefits. Choosing audiologist care ensures personalized attention, quality devices, accurate diagnosis, ongoing support, and helps with emotional well-being. When it comes to preserving your hearing health, consulting audiologists is the wiser and more effective choice.

Kevin Kock is an audiologist at Audiology Consultants, P.C. For more information, visit audiologyconsultants.com. Stores are located in Davenport, IA, Muscatine, IA, Moline, IL, and Geneseo, IL.