Major news in pharmacy aisles across the country.
Hearing aids are now offered over the counter without a prescription, exam, or fitting. It is important to note, over- the- counter hearing aids are only for people with mild to moderate hearing loss. If you have severe hearing loss, you will still need a prescription.
The Biden administration estimates the move could save Americans about $3,000 per year. The aids can also easily be accessed.
Most major retailers are already selling or will sell the devices.
CNBC has priced out what you could expect to spend at each retailer.
Walgreens is selling hearing aids online only for about $799. CVS also has the devices available online only with prices ranging from $199 to $999. According to CNBC, CVS will start selling hearing aids in-store at select locations. Walmart also has hearing aids available within a price range of $199 to $999 online and in-store. Best buy has over 20 different kinds. Prices at best buy range from $200 to $3,000.
The less expensive costs are thanks to not having to bundle the hearing aids with a hearing evaluation, fitting or fine-tuning. The costs are expected to decrease even more as more companies join the market.
Some health experts do advise you to go visit an audiologist for a hearing test before purchasing your over-the-counter hearing aid.
A few more recommended tips, try more than one OTC aid to see which one works best. Also, look for hearing aids labeled self-fitting. Hopefully, over-the-counter hearing aids won’t be the only thing costing less at the pharmacy. The inflation reduction act is expected to lower the costs of several medications. According to the centers for Medicare and Medicaid, the average American spends $1,500 per person every year
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