Ohio AG warns of fake over-the-counter hearing aids
The warning comes after reports of scammers selling “over the counter” prescriptions jumped.
TOLEDO, Ohio — Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost is warning consumers to beware of some misleading tactics by over-the-counter hearing aid companies that make false claims of performance and that they have the government’s approval.
May is Better Hearing Month and in an effort to raise awareness, Ohio Attorney Dave Yost has issued the following guidance when purchasing hearing aids and similar products:
- Be evaluated by a medical professional, such as an ear, nose and throat specialist, ear specialist or any licensed physician.
- Hearing aids should be fitted by an expert, such as a doctor or audiologist.
- Check the Better Business Bureau’s website, bbb.org, to view the ratings of a hearing aid retailer before purchasing the product.
- Remember, the FDA has not approved ANY OTC hearing aids. And, of course, if a deal seems too good to be true, it likely is.
It’s estimated that nearly 1.1 million Ohioans and nearly one in eight Americans suffer from hearing loss.
