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In short What changed Who they may fit When to see a clinician first Cost and coverage Before you buy Protect your hearing Common questions SourcesThe FDA now allows hearing aids to be sold over the counter to adults with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss, with no prescription or fitting visit. They are not right for everyone. See a clinician for sudden hearing loss, ear pain or drainage, or severe hearing loss.
What changed
The FDA created a category of over-the-counter hearing aids for adults 18 and older with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss. You can buy them in stores or online without a medical exam or a prescription. Prescription hearing aids are still available and are fitted by a professional.
Who they may fit
They are meant for adults who notice trouble hearing in conversation or noisy places but can still hear loud sounds. They are not meant for children or for severe hearing loss.
When to see a clinician first
Reasons to get a medical evaluation instead of buying a device include sudden or rapidly getting worse hearing loss, ear pain or drainage, dizziness, and hearing loss in only one ear. See our guides on dizziness and ear infections.
Cost and coverage
Medicare.gov says Original Medicare generally does not cover hearing aids, see what Original Medicare does not cover. Some insurance plans and Medicare Advantage plans offer a benefit. Prices vary widely by device, so compare features, return policies and trial periods.
Before you buy
Ask about a trial period and return policy, and check what support the seller offers for setup and adjustment. A hearing test with an audiologist can show whether an over-the-counter device is a fit. Ask for the cost first. See how to ask for a self-pay discount.
Protect your hearing
Lower the volume on headphones and use ear protection around loud noise.
Pymander is not a replacement for a physician and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Common questions
Do I need a prescription for these hearing aids?
Not for FDA-category over-the-counter devices intended for adults with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss.
Does Medicare pay for hearing aids?
Original Medicare generally does not.
When should I see a doctor instead?
For sudden hearing loss, ear pain or drainage, dizziness, or loss in only one ear.
Can Pymander test my hearing?
No. Pymander cannot test your hearing. It can help you decide whether to see a clinician. Pymander is available in all 50 states.
Pymander is not a replacement for a physician and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.