Which year did the FDA release new regulations pertaining to Over-the-Counter hearing aids?

The FDA released new regulations pertaining to Over-the-Counter (OTC) hearing aids in 2022. This was a significant change designed to improve access to hearing aids for consumers by allowing them to purchase these devices directly without needing a prescription or a visit to a healthcare provider. The intent of this regulation was to make hearing aids more affordable and accessible, particularly for those with mild to moderate hearing loss.

The introduction of these regulations marked a pivotal moment in hearing health care, as it aimed to encourage competition and innovation in the market. By shifting some of the regulatory burden and allowing consumers more autonomy in their hearing health decisions, the FDA aimed to enhance consumer choice and promote better hearing health options for a larger segment of the population.