Information on Hearing Aids
Over the Counter Hearing Aids
Over-the-Counter (OTC) hearing aids which are designed for adults with mild-to-moderate hearing loss have been available to consumers since 2022 but are they right for everyone?
The Hearing Loss Assocation of America has a webpage full of resources to help individuals understand OTC hearing aids and we encourage you to visit their site for more information.
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Hearing Aids - Hearing Loss Association of America
A wide variety of hearing aids of different sizes with an array of different features are currently available. Unlike glasses, hearing aids cannot correct a hearing loss but aid in amplifying sound. Each individual has different needs based on their specific hearing loss and should consult a hearing healthcare professional for an evaluation and, if needed, to determine which hearing aid would best fit their needs.
There are a variety of hearing healthcare professionals that specialize in hearing loss. KCDHH does not refer consumers to specific hearing healthcare professionals. You can check your local Yellow Pages to locate an Audiologist, Otologist/Neurotologist, ENT and Hearing Instrument Specialist, or contact the following boards to assist you with locating a specialist in your area.
Choosing a Hearing Aid
As a consumer, you should keep yourself well informed when purchasing a hearing aid. Your Guide to Buying Hearing Aids, an excellent resource published by the Better Hearing Institute, has been designed to answer the many questions you may have when trying to choose a hearing aid.
Financial Assistance for Hearing Aids
There are many organizations (Accessible PDF) around the state and nation that offer financial assistance of varying degrees for the purchase of hearing aids. Please contact individual organizations for guidelines and applications.
Hearing Aids for Children
The Kentucky Commission for Children with Special Health Care Needs also provides audiological and related services for children up to age 21. Eligibility requirements include a condition amenable to medical treatment, a financial need to pay for the care or the inability to get similar care through other sources.
KRS 304.17A-132 Coverage for Hearing Aids
This law requires health benefit plans to provide coverage for hearing aids and related services for persons under 18 years of age. It also requires all health benefit plans for state employees to provide coverage for hearing aids and related services for dependents under 18 years of age.
Additional Hearing Aid Resources |
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Hearing Aid Insurance To cover loss and damage after the |
Hearing Aid Accessories To help protect and maintain your hearing aid. |