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- Hello. Let's talk about over-the-counter hearing aids. Once upon a time, if you had hearing loss you would need to make an appointment with an audiologist to have an in-person hearing exam and then get a prescription before you could be fitted for hearing aids. The process was costly in both time and money but now the FDA has approved the sale of over-the-counter hearing aids for millions of Americans who experience mild to moderate hearing loss. Anyone 18 or older can purchase these devices directly from Best Buy without a prescription. This also means more companies will be making hearing aids and as more options become available, they'll continue to become more affordable. Because hearing is such an important topic, the FDA has implemented new regulations to ensure the safety and effectiveness of over-the-counter hearing aids. Anyone who suffers from severe hearing loss must still consult with an audiologist for a hearing aid prescription and people younger than 18 cannot purchase over-the-counter hearing aids. Other regulations include lowering the maximum sound output, the depth limit in the ear canal, user adjustable volume control, and overall simplification of device labeling. If you struggle to hear the things you care about, certain people, environments, or situations, take our online hearing assessment to learn more. We're here to help you understand your options and find a safe solution that helps you connect and communicate with others. Thanks for watching.