The provincial government has approved the sale of Health Canada approved over-the-counter hearing aids.
The province says that this move is part of the Health Innovation Pathway, a streamlined approach to accelerating the adoption of innovative health technologies.
As part of that pathway, the province is "advancing proposed regulatory changes that, once passed, will give Ontarians with mild to moderate hearing loss more convenient and accessible options for hearing support," a statement from the province said.
The government said this new measure will not in any way impact or replace the existing model of hearing aid prescriptions and coverage in Ontario. Instead, this move is meant to provide an additional option.
In April of this year, the provincial government launched a 30-day consultation period to gather feedback on the potential sale of over-the-counter hearing aids. According to the province, the support for the change was "overwhelming" and now upon completion of the legislative and regulatory changes, manufacturers of in-ear headphones and earbuds with built-in hearing aid capabilities (otherwise referred to as over-the-counter hearing aids) will be able to turn on these features, providing more choice and convenience for Ontarians.
"As someone who uses a hearing aid, I know just how important it is to remain independent and connected. Having over-the-counter options gives people personal choice and access to the professional care and coverage that they need whenever necessary," shared Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility.
