Hearing aids are devices designed to improve your hearing by making sound audible. Hearing aids are a great solution for those with hearing loss, tinnitus, or another hearing disorder. As of August 2022, the FDA issued a final rule that establishes a new service delivery model and category of hearing aids. These are over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids.
What is an OTC Hearing Aid?
Over-the-counter hearing aids are self-fit hearing aids designed for adults 18+ who have mild hearing loss in both ears. If you have a tight budget and a mild hearing loss, then OTC hearing aids may be a good fit for you.
When are OTC Hearing Aids Going to Be Available?
OTC hearing aids will be available mid-October 2022.
OTC Compared to Prescription
Prescription hearing aids are classified as medical devices and are regulated by the FDA. Prescription hearing aids are fit to your unique ear shape and hearing needs by an audiologist or hearing instrument specialist. These hearing aids are good for any type or degree of hearing loss for people of all ages.
According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, if you have any of the following health conditions, a prescription hearing aid will be better for you:
Unilateral (one-sided) hearing loss
Sudden recent hearing loss
Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
Have taken medication known to cause hearing loss
Have a history of chemotherapy or radiation
Constant pain in the ears
Frequent dizziness
We Are Here to Help You
No matter what your hearing needs are, we are here to help you. Whether you would like to explore OTC or prescription hearing aid options, we would be happy to go over the differences and help you find the right device for your lifestyle.
If you think a hearing aid could help you, we encourage you to come in for a hearing test. We can evaluate your hearing, determine the severity of your hearing loss, and help you find a device that will allow you to hear what you want again. Contact us today to schedule your appointment or if you have any questions about OTC hearing aids.
Our Provider
John Paul Schaeffer, HIS
Licensed Hearing Instrument Specialist | Veteran | Medical Professional
John Paul Schaeffer is a dedicated Hearing Instrument Specialist and veteran with a diverse background in emergency medicine, military service, and healthcare. His career has focused on improving patient care through a combination of medical expertise and advanced hearing healthcare.
John’s journey began at 14 as a volunteer firefighter, and by 16, he was an EMT with the Virginia Beach Rescue Squad. At 18, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving with the 2nd Marine Division and providing battlefield medicine during two tours in Iraq. He balanced this with earning an associate degree and later worked in emergency medicine and medical transport.
Transitioning into hearing healthcare, John managed Miracle-Ear clinics across Virginia and the Carolinas before co-founding a private clinic. His commitment to patient care and innovative approaches led to the growth of community outreach programs and mobile clinics for underserved populations.
Currently with Revolution Hearing, John continues to provide personalized hearing solutions, dedicated to improving the lives of his patients.
Our Provider
Megan Zablan, HIS
Hearing Instrument Specialist
Megan has spent the past 25 years in Virginia Beach, where she developed her passion for the hearing aid industry, inspired by her mother, a dedicated hearing aid specialist. With 10 years of experience, Megan is committed to providing personalized care and building strong, lasting relationships with each client. She takes the time to understand their unique hearing needs and deliver the highest level of service. Outside of work, Megan enjoys spending time with her two dogs, Chewie and Adobo, playing board games, and staying active with pickleball. Her mission is simple: to help people hear better and improve their quality of life. Megan is dedicated to making sure every client receives the best possible care on their hearing journey.
Understanding Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids
Over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids are devices designed to assist individuals with hearing loss in a more accessible and cost-effective manner. Unlike traditional hearing aids, which require a prescription and fitting by a professional, OTC hearing aids can be purchased directly by consumers, allowing for greater independence in managing hearing health.
These devices come in various styles and technologies, catering to different degrees of hearing loss. They are equipped with features such as adjustable volume controls, background noise reduction, and Bluetooth connectivity, enhancing the listening experience for users in diverse environments.
Benefits of OTC Hearing Aids
OTC hearing aids offer numerous advantages, making them an appealing option for those experiencing hearing difficulties. One of the primary benefits is their affordability, as they eliminate the need for costly professional fittings and ongoing maintenance associated with prescription devices.
Additionally, OTC hearing aids empower users by allowing them to take control of their hearing needs. Many models are designed to be user-friendly, with easy-to-follow instructions for setup and operation, enabling individuals to customize their hearing experience without relying on external assistance.
How to Choose the Right OTC Hearing Aid
Selecting the appropriate OTC hearing aid involves considering various factors, including the severity of hearing loss, lifestyle needs, and budget. It's essential for consumers to assess their specific requirements and preferences to find a device that best suits their hearing challenges.
Many OTC hearing aids come with features tailored to different environments, such as those optimized for quiet settings or those designed to handle noisy situations. Reading customer reviews and seeking recommendations can also aid in making an informed decision when choosing the right device.
FAQs About OTC Hearing Aids
As interest in OTC hearing aids grows, many potential users have questions regarding their effectiveness, usage, and maintenance. Common queries include how these devices compare to prescription hearing aids and whether they can be adjusted for specific hearing profiles.
It's important to note that while OTC hearing aids are beneficial for mild to moderate hearing loss, they may not be suitable for everyone. Users should consult with healthcare professionals if they have concerns about their hearing health or if they experience significant hearing loss.
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Revolution Hearing Verification Process
The verification process at Revolution Hearing is designed to ensure that users accessing our services are genuine individuals. This step is crucial in maintaining the integrity of our platform and protecting sensitive information from automated systems.
By implementing a CAPTCHA verification, we can effectively filter out bots and ensure that every interaction with our services is authentic. This process not only enhances security but also improves the overall user experience by allowing real customers to access our offerings without delay.
Importance of CAPTCHA in Online Services
CAPTCHA technology plays a vital role in safeguarding online services from spam and abuse. By requiring users to complete a simple test, such as identifying objects in images or typing distorted text, we can confirm their humanity before granting access to sensitive content.
This layer of security is particularly important for businesses like Revolution Hearing, where the confidentiality of personal health information is paramount. Utilizing CAPTCHA helps us protect our users and maintain trust in our services.
What to Expect After Verification
Once you successfully complete the verification process, you will gain immediate access to the comprehensive hearing services offered by Revolution Hearing. This includes consultations, product information, and resources tailored to your hearing needs.
We strive to make the transition from verification to accessing our services as seamless as possible. Users can expect an intuitive interface and helpful support to guide them through their journey with us, ensuring they receive the best care and information available.
Common Issues During Verification
Users may occasionally encounter challenges during the CAPTCHA verification process. Common issues include difficulty in reading distorted text or identifying images accurately, which can lead to frustration when trying to access our services.
If you experience any problems, we recommend refreshing the CAPTCHA or trying an alternative method of verification. Our support team is also available to assist with any technical difficulties, ensuring that you can quickly and easily access the services you need.
