How to choose the best over-the-counter hearing aids

Choosing a hearing aid is not easy, especially when your options are limited by product type or price.

Luckily, A A new federal law recently went into effect that can expand the options available to you.

Americans with mild to moderate hearing disabilities are now able to do so Buy hearing aids without a prescription at dramatically lower prices, leaving millions of more affordable devices to choose from, according to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Previously, such a purchase required customers to provide a prescription from an audiologist or other hearing care professional.

Bipartisan legislation to create a category of over-the-counter hearing aids was originally passed in 2017, but the rule has just changed.

“Reducing the cost of healthcare in America has been one of my priorities since day one, and this rule is designed to help us achieve quality and affordable access to healthcare for millions of Americans in need,” said Secretary of Health Xavier Becerra and Human Services, in a news release, calling the rule a “significant milestone” in making hearing aids more accessible to the public.

If you are looking for a new hearing aid and want to buy one online then start shopping now.

How to choose the best over-the-counter hearing aids

The exact number of Americans who need hearing aids is unclear. Each organization has its own way of reporting and tracking such information. However, the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders estimates – based on data collected through the annual National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) – that approximately 28.8 million US adults could benefit from hearing aid use.

While not required, it is still recommended that you speak to a licensed audiologist and consider a quick medical evaluation to determine your exact hearing aid needs.

If you’re ready to buy new hearing aids but still want quick advice from a professional, then consider using an online service like Lively. You start with a quick online hearing test, scan the website for a quality hearing aid, place your order and Lively programs it to your needs and delivers it right to your door. It’s that simple. Get started now.

To choose the best over-the-counter hearing aid, follow these five steps.

1. Determine the style

First, determine what style (size, type, etc.) works best for you. Do you want a completely in-canal hearing aid, in-the-ear-canal (ITC) hearing aid, in-the-ear (ITE) hearing aid, behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aid, receiver-in-canal (RIC) or receiver -in-the-ear (RITE) hearing aids, an open fit or something else? Review your choices carefully.

The Mayo Clinic provides detailed reviews of each style, as well as a picture showing how each device fits. You can also visit the National Council of Aging website to view the pros and cons of each style and fit.

“Hearing aids vary widely in price, size, features, and how they are placed in the ear,” Mayo Clinic explains online. “Hearing aid designers are making hearing aids smaller and smaller to meet the demand for a hearing aid that is not very noticeable. But the smaller devices may not have the power to give you the enhanced hearing you can expect.”

2. Check the functions

You should carefully review the features and functions of each hearing aid. The Mayo Clinic recommends looking for the following: noise reduction, rechargeable batteries, wireless connectivity, syncing (if you use two hearing aids), telecoils, directional microphones, a remote control, and more.

3. Ask for a trial period

This one is pretty self explanatory. Many hearing aids come with trial periods where you can try the device and see if it works for you long-term.

“Have the pharmacist write down the cost of a trial, whether that amount counts toward the final cost of the hearing aid, and how much will be reimbursed if you return the hearing aid during the trial period,” advises the Mayo Clinic.

4. Look for a guarantee

Likewise, you should consider a warranty in case the device malfunctions or doesn’t perform as expected.

5. Compare costs

Finally, there is the cost of the device to consider. You don’t want a hearing aid to break the bank. Make sure you shop around and do your research. Compare brands, services, products and prices to find the best hearing aid you can afford.

It is always advisable to check your insurance policy to see if it will cover part of the total cost.

“Medicare does not cover the cost of adult hearing aids. In many states, private insurers have to pay for children’s hearing aids. Medical coverage covers hearing aids in most states. If you’re a veteran, you may be able to do so to get your hearing aid for free through the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA),” adds the Mayo Clinic.