Consumer Resources
OTC VERSUS PRESCRIPTION HEARING AIDS - WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE?
Advertisements are shouting about the latest over-the-counter hearing aids and other direct-to-consumer devices, new brands such as "listen Lively" at Costco, "Eargo" or "Elehear" at Best Buy, or Apple Pro+ earbuds, versions 2 and 3.
It can be a very confusing, frustrating or intimidating time for consumers who just want to hear or understand better, especially in challenging environments. It's also a concerning time for audiologists as more consumer-focused brands enter the market and spend big advertising dollars to convince people that their widget could solve a long-term sensory challenge, even without having their hearing tested first!
The greatest difference is that OTC instruments are required to be either self- fitting or self-adjusting. This means that YOU will be the person who creates the fitting parameters on your own. It is a D0-It-Yourself (DIY) process. This is in contrast to what are now called prescription hearing aids, which are programmed for you by a qualified audiologist or hearing instrument specialist, who works in collaboration with you and your preferences; you are not on your own.
Although all options have a place in the market, there are additional differences. We have created a side-by-side comparison graphic to show you why, people that want to successfully achieve a long-term benefit chose to partner with professionals.
| Work with Professional | Big Box Store | Direct to Consumer | Over the Counter | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Diagnostic hearing evaluation |  |
X | X | X |
| Repair warranty | 3 or 4 years* | 3 years | 3 years | X |
| Loss or damage warranty | 3 or 4 years | 2 years | 3 years | X |
| In person appointments | |
|
X | X |
| Virtual appointments | |
X | |
X |
| Locally operated | |
X | X | X |
| Utilize your insurance benefits | |
X | X | X |
| Treated by a doctor or audiologist | |
X | Possibly | X |
| Payment plans available* | |
X | Possibly | X |
| Large choice of hearing devices | |
X | |
X |
| Continued personalized care with the same provider | |
X | X | X |
| Many repairs are fixed on-site | |
X | X | X |
| Loaners are provided if yours needs manufacturer repair | |
X | X | X |
| On-site customizable aids are linked to cell phones | |
X | X | X |
| Accessories provided if recommended on treatment plan | |
X | X | X |
| Custom fit earmolds | |
X | X | X |
| Buy online without a consultation | X | X | X | |
* Depending on treatment plan
Nancy at Duncan Hearing Healthcare, Fall River, Mass. shared this with us.