What major change was made by the FDA concerning hearing aids in 2016?

The major change made by the FDA concerning hearing aids in 2016 was the removal of the medical clearance requirement. This shift allowed individuals to access hearing aids without needing to obtain a medical evaluation or clearance from a healthcare professional. The intention behind this change was to make hearing aids more accessible to those with hearing loss by streamlining the process of obtaining these devices. By eliminating the requirement for medical assessment, the FDA sought to empower consumers and facilitate easier access to hearing aids, which can be a crucial component for enhancing communication and quality of life for individuals with hearing challenges.

The other options, while related to various aspects of hearing aids and their regulation, do not accurately reflect the significant policy change instituted at that time. The focus on access and consumer empowerment in the hearing aid market was a pivotal step in regulatory reform within the FDA framework.