Cheaper Hearing Aids Finally Available Over the Counter
(AmericanProsperity.com) – The FDA finalized its decision on August 16 allowing over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids to bypass the prescription process. The ruling included a 60-day waiting period, which is now over, opening the doors to new options for the nearly 30 million Americans troubled by poor auditory function.
Getting hearing aids just got easier, faster and cheaper https://t.co/jH7UV5wVWP
— GStuedler🇺🇸🇧🇧 (@gstuedler) October 18, 2022
The FDA’s ruling followed an executive order from President Joe Biden promoting fair competition in US markets and “more choices, better service, and lower prices” for consumers. Experts believe the change will make hearing aids more accessible and cost-effective for the average buyer.
Previously, doctors required patients to make multiple visits for prescriptions and fine-tuning, a time-consuming and expensive proposition. Several companies have already jumped on the OTC bandwagon, with Walmart offering varieties starting at just $199 per pair. Sony is selling a “prescription-grade” selection for $999.99.
There are a couple of caveats to the new deal. First, people under 18 years old or suffering from severe hearing loss still need to see their doctors for prescriptions and fittings. Also, without any informed direction to narrow their choices, some people could choose devices that aren’t right for their needs. Still, with increased options now on the table, more people are likely to benefit from hearing aid use, and prices will likely decrease as availability continues to increase.
~Here’s to Your Prosperity!
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