INDIANAPOLIS — For the first time this week, consumers can buy hearing aids over the counter and without a prescription.
“The goal of getting a lot more hearing aids onto Hoosiers ears helps normalize wearing hearing aids just like the frequency of glasses. People need them. People use them way too little part of his expense," IU Health Associate Professor of Clinical Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Dr. Charles Yates said. "Part of its vanity part of it maybe even being seen as old. But they help a fraction of the people that they really can. And this is going to make big steps towards helping people."
On Monday, Walgreens, CVS and Walmart began selling over-the-counter hearing aids online nationwide. Walgreens has already started selling the product in stores, which retails for $799. This comes after the Food and Drug Administration finalized the bipartisan legislation passed by Congress in 2017 this summer.
IU Health’s Dr. Yates told WRTV this is a huge step for thousands of Hoosiers living with hearing loss. Not only will this option help with access, but also it cuts costs significantly.
Dr. Yates added for people who hear everything muffled or it sounds like people are mumbling, it may be time to consider a hearing aid.
-
Tariffs lead to temporary layoffs at Stellantis Kokomo plant
Stellantis is halting production in Canada and Mexico due to a 25% tariff on imported vehicles, leading to temporary layoffs for about 900 U.S. employees in Michigan and Indiana plants.Tamika Catchings mural set for Mass Ave — Community input needed for design
A new mural is coming to Mass Ave honoring WNBA superstar Tamika Catchings, but your opinion is needed to help finalize the design!Indiana National Guard activated for storm recovery efforts
Governor Mike Braun has activated the Indiana National Guard to assist in recovery efforts following severe weather Wednesday night.Duke Energy restores power to thousands after severe Indiana storm
Duke Energy has restored power to over 74,000 customers in Indiana as of this morning after severe storms yesterday caused more than 85,000 outages.