What to know now that hearing aids are available over the counter

Chelle Wyatt holds her hearing aid on April 15, 2022, in Salt Lake City. (Rick Bowmer/AP)

Rick Bowmer / Rick Bowmer

Starting Monday, hearing aids will be available to buy over the counter across the U.S.

The major shift in hearing health care is due to a recent rule change by the Food and Drug Administration, which in August cleared the way for the devices to be sold in retail stores without the need for buyers to see a doctor first.

The move is being hailed as a win for those with hearing loss, which afflicts millions of people across the country, but experts say customers need to be cautious about what products they purchase as sales begin.