01/04/2026
“I saw hearing aids on the shelf at the pharmacy… is that an option for me?”
I get this question more than you’d think.
🦻In my clinical experience, many patients come into our clinic genuinely curious about over-the-counter (OTC) hearing devices…and for good reason. Increased access to hearing care is a positive step.
Here’s my expert take: OTC hearing aids are designed for adults over 18 with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss. For some people, they can be an appropriate starting point.
That said, they aren’t always the best solution.
OTC devices are self-fitting, which means there’s a lot of guessing involved…
👂 Guessing about the type of hearing loss
💻 Guessing about the correct settings
🩺 Guessing whether something more medically treatable is being missed
And when we guess, hearing outcomes often fall short of what’s possible.
🔍 My role is to help you understand why you’re having difficulty hearing and guide you toward the solution that truly fits your ears, your lifestyle, and your goals, whether that includes OTC devices or something else.
If you’re wondering where to begin on your hearing journey, please contact us. We’re here to walk alongside you and help you make confident, informed decisions about your hearing. 👂
