Prescription Hearing Aids vs Over The Counter (OTC)
The options for hearing technology have never been more plentiful and complicated.
Which Path to Improved Hearing Is Right for You?
Seeking treatment for hearing loss is a life-changing decision, and so is choosing a trusted professional to guide you in your treatment. The options for hearing technology have never been more plentiful and complicated.
Our caring professionals at Wichita Ear Clinic are here to guide you through this decision-making process, assessing your specific needs and helping you to choose the right option.
OVER-THE-COUNTER (OTC) HEARING DEVICES
Appropriate for: People with mild to moderate hearing loss
RISKS:
• Potential for exposure to unsafe noise levels, further damaging your hearing
• No clinical support
• No professional adjustment of programming based on hearing loss
• Not approved for individuals 18 years and younger
• No long-term plan of care or medical management
PURCHASE OPTIONS AND REQUIREMENTS:
• Can be purchased directly online or from a retailer
• Can be purchased without a medical professional’s guidance
• No hearing evaluation required
BENEFITS:
• Efficient purchase process
• Can be ordered from your home or in-store
• Device(s) can rest in the ear canal, behind the ear or around the neck
• Device(s) can be powered by replaceable batteries or are rechargeable
PRESCRIPTION-FIT HEARING AIDS
Appropriate for: People with all types and severities of hearing loss
RISKS:
None
PURCHASE OPTIONS AND REQUIREMENTS:
• Must be purchased through a hearing health care professional (audiologist or hearing instrument specialist—dependent on practice)
• Requires a comprehensive assessment to accurately diagnose your hearing loss and prescribe appropriate treatment
BENEFITS:
• A customized hearing treatment plan
• Continued medical management of hearing loss
• Prescription-fit hearing aids that are professionally programmed to address the unique needs of the patient
• Ongoing support with adjustment to new sounds and new technology, including troubleshooting with accessories and smartphone apps
• Aid(s) can be custom fit in the ear or behind the ear, in discreet sizes
• Aid(s) can be powered by replaceable batteries or are rechargeable
