The agency seeks to promote competition to lower the cost of hearing aids.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is taking steps to make hearing aids more accessible to consumers under the provisions of the Over-the-Counter Hearing Aid Act of 2017. The proposed rule has been issued to promote competition in the market, lowering the cost of hearing aids with the ability to purchase them over the counter (OTC). Upon finalization, the rule would allow those with mild to moderate hearing loss to obtain hearing aids without a medical exam or fitting by an audiologist.
“Hearing loss has a profound impact on daily communication, social interaction and the overall health and quality of life for millions of Americans,“ Acting FDA Commissioner Janet Woodcock stated. “The FDA’s proposed rule represents a significant step toward ensuring that adults with mild to moderate hearing loss have improved access to more affordable and innovative product options.“
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For the FDA as they work to make hearing aids easier and less expensive to acquire.
- For discernment for the acting commissioner as she heads the FDA.
- For Americans who are dealing with hearing loss.
Sources: The Food and Drug Administration
