Misjudgments of Hearing Loss and Its Implications for Over‐the‐Counter Hearing Aids

This study suggested that individuals are frequently unable to assess their degree of hearing loss with sufficient accuracy to choose the most appropriate care. To ensure that consumers are making informed decisions about the use of OTC hearing aids, the Food and Drug Administration should consider offering additional guidance that directs patients to first seek out a more standardized measure of hearing provided by a hearing health professional. This additional direction can enhance the quality of care of OTC hearing aid consumers.