Should You Be Cautious of OTC Hearing Aids?

The low cost of over the counter (OTC) hearing aids may seem really appealing. But, while these cheaper devices may seem like a steal up-front, they often lack a lot of the features prescription hearing aids do.

Plus, when you go to get them you may end up skipping critical steps that are important if you want to (a) make sure your hearing aids properly fit your ears (comfortably), and (b) make sure they are going  work for your hearing loss.

Should You Avoid OTC Hearing Aids?

How your treating hearing loss is always your choice. But we recommend being very cautious when considering OTC hearing aids and ensuring you are aware of the limitations in technology.

Some important things to consider about OTC hearing aids:

1. They lack a lot of advanced features prescription devices offer
2. They are typically lower quality technology and really struggle to filter sound in noisy settings
3. You don’t get the customization for your unique hearing loss (you’re often responsible for setting up and adjusting the devices yourself)
4. They lack fine-tuning capabilities
5. They’re not ideal for individuals with more severe hearing loss

Not Working with an Audiologist Could Also Lead to Fitting and Programming Issues

The other issue with OTC hearing aids is you’re often skipping the experience and knowledge of working with an audiologist that can lead to ensuring hearing aids are properly fitted and programmed.

For example, you don’t get the professional guidance of an experienced hearing health professional, nor the ongoing support and maintenance that an audiologist provides.

Some other reasons to consider going to an audiologist vs buying an OTC device:

1. Audiologists have a degree in audiology and experience writing medical reports and collaborating with other health professionals
2. Audiologists have an in-depth knowledge of ear anatomy, acoustics, and amplification, and they can perform diagnostic hearing tests and appropriate referrals
3. Audiologists offer professional hearing aid fittings and adjustments, as well as ongoing maintenance
4. You will have more hearing technology options available, and more advanced solutions that can be customized

Nervous About Hearing Aid Prices

Cost is always a concern for anyone when it comes to modern healthcare, and we completely understand that. Many insurance companies do now offer coverage for hearing aids, and we currently accept the following insurance providers:

• BlueCross BlueShield
• HealthPartners
• Medica
• Medicare
• UnitedHealth Group
• TruHearing benefits
• NationsHearing

We’re always trying to expand this as well. Plus, you may be eligible for state-specific programs that can help you get hearing aids at a lower cost. You can always call our office or send us an email or message to ask about hearing aids, insurance, and more.

Are OTC Hearing Aids Ever a Good Choice?

While we can’t comfortably recommend OTC devices, we do appreciate that they may offer greater accessibility as a lower-cost option. If cost is a concern, OTC devices may be a good first step – but not if your hearing loss is moderate to severe.

OTC devices come with quality and customization sacrifices too, so if choosing OTC hearing aids as a first-time option, keep that in mind. Here’s a helpful guide to choosing a hearing aid to use.

If you want to explore more modern hearing aid options and compare features and pricing, visit our helpful hearing aid brands page.

You can also explore the more customizable (and smaller) styles here.

How Do I Choose the Right Hearing Aid?

Every person’s path to choosing hearing aids is unique. We believe it should be a journey where you set the pace and we match it. In fact, we offer hearing aid consultations where you can come in and try different devices. We’ll talk with you about what options we think are best for your hearing loss, ear anatomy, and lifestyle. Plus you can feel and try different styles and brands (which also come in an array of colors). 

Book a hearing aid consult here today and come explore your options.  Or, download this free visual guide here.