In the late 1970s, the Food and Drug Administration enacted its Hearing Aid Rule, which required anyone seeking to purchase a hearing aid to see a physician prior to the purchase. This rule only provided one option to get around the physician rule, to sign a waiver acknowledging the risks of bypassing a visit to a physician. In recent years, the proliferation of internet and television ads promoting cheap, over the counter hearing aids has caused some serious competition to traditional hearing aid manufacturers as well as controversy over the effectiveness of non prescription hearing aids.
Not all audiologists believe in over the counter hearing aids and their benefits. Many hearing professionals believe only a licensed audiologist can correctly diagnose, prescribe and fit hearing aids. Of course, it is always recommended to see a physician prior to purchasing hearing aids. In some cases, mild to moderate hearing loss can be caused by a simple build up of ear wax; while more serious cases are caused by nerve tumors or ear infections.
An argument against OTC hearing aids is the proliferation of shady companies selling products over the internet and through mail order that may fall apart or not work at all.
The pros of purchasing over the counter hearing aids, after proper diagnosis by a physician and investigation of the company offering the hearing aids, is they are less expensive and often work with better results than bulky prescription hearing aids. In general, most insurance companies do not cover the cost of hearing aids, making traditional hearing aids out of reach for most budgets.
HearPods is a company that manufactures and sells digital hearing aids that are affordable and work well for many levels of hearing loss. The founder of HearPods has dedicated himself to providing high quality digital hearing aids for a price that is affordable. HearPods are not your typical over the counter hearing aids that can be purchased through mail order. They are programmable to your specific hearing test results, provided by your physician. Being programmable to each patient makes HearPods an affordable, comfortable and effective alternative to traditional hearing aids.
They also have the HearPal, which is a non-prescription digital hearing device that is ideal for hearing better in meetings, conferences and church, or even just the TV. HearPal is produced according to FDA standards, and offers the highest quality non-prescription sound magnification. It’s intended for those who don’t require a prescription hearing device, but find that there are certain occasions where sound amplification makes it easier for them to hear.
While most patients complain of the sensation of their ears being plugged up when wearing traditional hearing aids, or even larger OTC hearing aids, HearPods offers a smaller solution to most types of hearing loss. They produce a discreet, small hearing aid that fits openly, without the plugged ear sensation. An additional benefit of purchasing HearPods is the excellent customer service, available 24/7 via phone and email. HearPods also provide simple owner’s instructions with an accompanying video to instruct the user in how to clean and maintain their hearing aids.
Over the counter hearing aids are not right for everyone, but a quality affordable product from HearPods can go a long way toward alleviating the symptoms and anxiety of hearing loss. HearPods provides both custom programmed solutions for those experiencing hearing loss, as well as a non-prescription product for those who do not yet need a customized device. Do your research in how hearing aids can benefit you, see your doctor if you are experiencing even mild to moderate hearing loss and contact HearPods. Experience a world of difference in your relationships, your life and your well being.

