OTC vs Prescription Hearing Aids

Hearing loss is a global health issue that impacts millions of people, but still, many are reluctant to go for a treatment option as they think that the hearing aids are very costly or complicated to use. The introduction of OTC (Over-the-Counter) hearing aids has made it easier for consumers, who are now offered a variety of choices like never before. However, the one big question still remains whether to go for OTC hearing aids or prescription hearing aids. It is the differences that will lead you to make the right choice, taking into consideration your hearing needs, lifestyle, and long-term comfort.

In this blog post, we present the most important quality difference between OTC and prescription hearing aids to assist you in selecting the option that will contribute to good hearing and improved quality.

What Are OTC Hearing Aids?

OTC hearing aids are the type of devices that can be easily bought by any adult with mild to moderate hearing loss, directly from the stores or online; however, they do not require any visits to an audiologist. People with mild to moderate hearing loss will find these devices to be a more accessible way of getting basic hearing support, as they come at a low price.

Benefits of OTC Hearing Aids

Affordable pricing: Prices are much lower than those for prescription hearing aids.

Easy purchase: There is no need for hearing tests or audiologist consultations.

Quick access: OTC hearing aids can be purchased from retail outlets or via the Internet, with rapid delivery service.

User-controllable: The user has the option of altering the basic sound settings to suit their needs.

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Hearing Aids Limitations

Hearing aids cannot be used in cases of hearing loss or complex types of hearing loss.

Very limited personal adjustments and sound mixing are available with them.

As each one is not made for a specific person, the tuning may not be the best.

There is no need for the monitoring of professionals, making adjustments, or providing support regularly.

What Are Prescription Hearing Aids?

Hearing aids that are prescribed by a physician are instruments that an audiologist fits after conducting a thorough hearing test. They come with the latest technology and are placed for mild to profound hearing loss. However, they do provide clarity of sound.

Benefits of Prescription Hearing Aids

Custom-fitted: It's like making a tailored suit for your ear and hearing capacity.

Advanced technology: Reduction of noise, Bluetooth use, directional microphones, tuning by AI, and recharging are just a few.

Professional support: Hearing tests, programming of the device, follow-ups, and changes.

Better long-term outcomes: All in all, comfort, clearness, and satisfaction will be higher.

Limitations of Prescription Hearing Aids

The initial price is still way more than that of an OTC device.

You will have to make an appointment and visit a professional for it.

Final Thought 

The decision between OTC and prescription hearing aids entirely relies on your hearing capacity and long-term objectives. If you want to have the best outcome, then seeing an audiologist is a must for an exact conclusion and the most proper hearing solution. HearSan is where we offer expert hearing analysis, suited fittings, and top-notch hearing aid solutions that are suitable for your way of living.