Where to buy over-the-counter hearing aids: FDA rule change

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Several major retailers say they’re selling the newly-allowed OTC aids starting Monday.

WASHINGTON — Starting Monday, Americans with mild to moderate hearing loss can buy hearing aids over-the-counter — dodging the often expensive and time-consuming steps of a prescription, exam and fitting.

It’s part of a long-awaited final rule issued in August by the Food and Drug Administration that was expected to lower the cost of hearing aids and increase competition.

The devices, which the government estimates nearly 30 million Americans could benefit from, can traditionally cost as much as $5,000, including fitting. Insurance coverage also poses a frequent obstacle, with Medicare patients paying the full cost for hearing aids.

Major retailers are already selling the devices, including Walgreens, CVS, and Walmart. The White House says Best Buy and Hy-Vee plan to start offering the devices later this week.

Brands and prices vary, but hearing aids offered by the chains range from about $200 — a price advertised by Walmart and Best Buy — to $3,000. In-person availability varies: Some retailers offer the devices in certain locations and others only plan to offer them online.

The rule change followed years of pressure by experts and advocates, plus a 2017 law instructing the FDA to lay out a plan.

“Today’s action by the FDA represents a significant milestone in making hearing aids more cost-effective and accessible,” Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra, said in an earlier statement announcing the rule change.

Hearing aids for people with severe hearing loss remain prescription only.