Dr. Edwards presents a comprehensive overview of the transformation occurring in hearing healthcare, with a focus on the emergence of OTC hearing aids. He categorizes the transformation into three areas: advancements in technology, changes in service delivery, and innovations in distribution channels. He argues that the field is shifting from a purely medical model toward a hybrid that includes more consumer-centric approaches. The introduction of OTC hearing aids is seen as both a response to consumer demands for more accessible and affordable solutions, and a potential opportunity for hearing care professionals to expand their reach—not a threat to traditional audiology.
Throughout his presentation, Dr. Edwards emphasizes that OTC hearing aids are FDA-regulated medical devices intended for adults with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss—shifting the focus from objective audiometric thresholds to subjective hearing difficulty. He critiques the assumption that affordability and accessibility are the main barriers to hearing aid adoption, using data from Australia to show that even when these barriers are minimized, uptake remains low.
The talk also addresses the complexities of self-fitting hearing aids, the varied consumer motivations and capabilities for adopting OTC solutions, and the importance of validated diagnostic tools, such as the Hearing Handicap Inventory for the Elderly (HHIE), for identifying candidates for OTC products. Dr. Edwards shares research findings from NAL on populations with perceived hearing loss but normal audiograms, exploring how they can still benefit from devices like RIC hearing aids or even AirPods configured for hearing assistance.
Finally, the webinar touches on challenges in telecommunication settings (e.g., Zoom and FaceTime), the development of consumer-friendly terminology for hearing aid features, and the broader implications of democratizing hearing care information. Dr. Edwards concludes with a reflection on how audiologists can maintain relevance by embracing innovation, offering personalized services, and supporting consumer empowerment. The webinar calls for a nuanced and inclusive approach to hearing healthcare transformation that embraces both clinical expertise and evolving consumer needs.