NPR — Adults with hearing problems will be allowed to buy hearing aids directly from stores, pharmacies, and online retailers with no prescription nor a doctor’s appointment in October.
The US Food and Drug Administration issued a final rule Tuesday creating a new category for over-the-counter hearing aids. The Biden administration says it will make the devices more accessible and affordable for millions of Americans. It follows years of work by lawmakers.
The rule does have some restrictions and applies only to certain air-conduction hearing aids for people over 18 with mild to moderate hearing impairment. Those with severe hearing loss and pediatric devices will remain prescription devices.
The FDA ruling is available to read by clicking here.