Prescription versus OTC Hearing Aids
In 2022, the FDA released guidelines for a new category of self-fitting over the counter hearing aids. Now there are three levels of devices:
Personal sound amplifying products (PSAPs)
Self-fitting OTC hearing aids
Professionally fit prescription hearing aids
As a consumer, it is very difficult to tell what is a high-quality over the counter device versus one that has no adjustments or noise filtering. If you are considering trying an over the counter option, we recommend keeping the following in mind:
Sometimes there can be temporary hearing loss caused by wax build-up, ear infections or holes in the eardrum. If you have any drainage or pain in your ears, please seek medical evaluation before trying one of these options
Everyone’s ear canals are different shapes and sizes, OTC options are designed for the average ear canal, but may not be comfortable in all ears.
Look for a device that can be programmed by frequency (to self-program you will have to complete hearing check yourself with the devices in your ears).
Be mindful that you will need to learn to connect the devices to your smartphone on your own
You will also need to learn how to put them in your ears and clean small parts and filters
Investigate the warranty and estimated lifespan of the device. Often rechargeable batteries are not intended to last more than 2 years. How do you obtain help if the devices malfunction?
Do you have a trial period to return if you are not satisfied with the devices?
These devices have safety volume limits on them, and therefore are intended only for mild to moderate hearing losses. Those with severe losses will achieve better speech understanding with prescription devices. Therefore, OTC options are more like “starter aids” or reading glasses
At Appalachian Audiology, our professional audiologists only provide prescription hearing aids. We believe that better hearing is about the process and not just the devices. Unlike OTC devices, the prescription level devices you will receive here include:
Counseling regarding how best to cope and manage your new diagnosis of hearing loss
Custom sizing or custom molding to your ear shape and size
Individual programming to calibrated measurements in the booth and readjustments to accommodate changes in hearing over time
Setting based on real-ear probe microphone measures to validate that each frequency band is set correctly for optimal clarity
A minimum of a 3 year repair warranty with loss replacement coverage
Orientation to device insertion and maintenance to ensure you feel confident using the devices
Local support whenever you need assistance
Fine-tuning based on your feedback with our audiologic expertise
Assistance with smart phone connections and accessories
Making the step to get hearing aids is a big decision in your life and therefore you should be comfortable with who you are choosing to help you on the journey. We believe in the importance of diagnostic hearing testing and professional hearing aid services in achieving the optimal clarity and reliability with your hearing devices.
Choosing the Right Audiologist
Many individuals are hesitant to adequately address their hearing healthcare because they fear the perceived stigma of wearing hearing aids. They also have a difficult time understanding how the hearing loss is disconnecting them from the family, friends, and activities they once enjoyed. For these reasons, it is important to choose a professional who can walk with the individual as they come to grips with their hearing loss. That's why choosing the right audiologist is the first step to choosing the right hearing instrument. This involves choosing a professional who has the right blend of life experience and technical expertise.
Depth of Experience
Any sensory loss can be life altering and unsettling. Overcoming the individual's reluctance to acknowledge a hearing problem and hesitancy to accept help is the first step in earning the trust that implementing a real solution will require. This process calls for a seasoned professional whose depth of experience:
Positions them to accompany the patient as they discover the impact their hearing loss is having on their life
Enables them to empower the patient with a solution that facilitates connection
That's why the practice of audiology is about re-connection. We work to reconnect people of all ages, from all walks of life with the friends, family, hobbies, and social activities that hearing loss has prevented them from enjoying.
Technical Expertise
The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association reports that there are currently 22 digital hearing aid manufacturers. The manufacturers produce an ordinate array of technologies varying from basic to sophisticated. Audiologists routinely dispense hearing aids that have 48 to 64 channels. The more channels, the better one hears in noise and the better the device can function automatically.
Basic, mid-level, and premium technology can all be improved in the hands of an experienced audiologist who uses probe microphone measures and other objective outcomes to ensure the highest satisfaction.
With this in mind, look for an audiologist that possesses:
Communication Skills
Compassion
Critical Thinking
Current knowledge of the field of audiology
Consistent customer care throughout the clinic
