Current Perspectives on Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids: A Follow Up Study

This follow-up study explores the evolving impact of over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids following the FDA's October 2022 guidelines. It examines the perspectives of audiologists, hearing instrument specialists, and audiology students on the changing landscape of hearing care. The importance of this work lies in its timely data collection, capturing perspectives at the introduction of OTC hearing aids and two years later. There has been significant hype about the potential impact of OTC devices on audiology and hearing care. While there was much speculation within the profession about how OTCs might change the landscape at the release, there was uncertainty about how these devices would be utilized. This study provides valuable insights into the concerns and expectations of those directly impacted by the shift, offering a clearer picture of the evolving dynamics within the field.​