Sound News

Presented By: Isidore Kirsh, Ph.D., F.A.A.A. (N.J. Lic. #678)

Dr. Isidore Kirsh Ph.D., F.A.A.A.

Over-The-Counter Hearing Aids Are A Bad Choice!

The consumer has so many choices regarding selection of hearing aids it can be quite confusing to know where to purchase these products. Whether you’re shopping in Best Buy, Walmart, CVS, Walgreens or just online, some company is trying to entice you to purchase their product. The majority of these products are advertised as either over-the-counter (OTCs) hearing aids, direct-to-consumer hearing aids (DTCs) or just cheap amplifiers. 95% of all of these products are only designed for “MILD” hearing losses and the majority are NOT programmed for your specific hearing loss. The FDA is basically assuming you as the consumer knows the degree of hearing loss you have without seeing an Audiologist who can properly and accurately test your hearing. It is Dr. Izzy’s opinion that ALL consumer’s seeking hearing help should have their hearing evaluated by a board-certified Audiologist prior to purchasing any type of OTC. You may not even be a candidate for even purchasing an OTC based on the degree of hearing loss you have or… You may just have impacted wax.

If OTC’s were the RIGHT CHOICE, why would at least 50-60% of consumers return these products for a full refund! The writing is clearly on the wall to stay away from these products. These products are not a “true” prescription for your hearing impairment and where would you go for follow up care if problems arise? Remember, “price” is only an issue in the absence of “value.”

Dr. Izzy and his Staff are always available to answer your questions about important hearing health care issues. Please feel free to contact us at 732-818-3610 (Toms River/Whiting) or 609-978-8946 (Manahawkin).