If you have mild to moderate hearing loss, you’ll soon be able to purchase over-the-counter hearing aids in Ontario without needing a prescription. However, experts in the audiology industry say they are concerned that people could misdiagnose their hearing problems. “We have no problem with getting accessible help for people; we just want to make sure it’s done safely and efficiently for the right people,” said Sanj Sukumaran, president of the Ontario Association of Professional Audiology (OAPAC). On Tuesday, the Ford government announced that later this year it will allow Ontarians to purchase over-the-counter hearing aids. The legislative change will be included in the fall economic update. According to the OAPAC, clinics are advising that anyone with hearing loss should speak with a professional, as hearing issues could be something as simple as wax buildup or as serious as a tumour. “We want to make sure you’re not covering up something with a hearing aid that should be medically treated,” Sukumaran said. Meanwhile, the College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists of Ontario shared a statement with CTV News saying that their organization “welcomes the Ontario government’s steps to enable the sale and use of Health Canada-approved over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids.” “OTC hearing aids may offer a more affordable, convenient, and accessible option for some Ontarians, particularly those who face barriers to accessing hearing care. CASLPO supports expanded access for adults aged 18 and older with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss, provided that appropriate safeguards are in place to protect the public.” The college also noted that OTC hearing aids are “not appropriate for everyone, including children and individuals with symptoms or underlying medical conditions that require assessment by a regulated hearing health care professional.” “A clear legal framework and robust consumer protections are important to ensure the public understands when access to an OTC hearing aid is appropriate and recommended.” “The College will continue to encourage individuals considering OTC hearing aids to consult with an audiologist or other regulated hearing health care professional to help determine whether these devices are appropriate for their needs,” the college said. Earbuds offering hearing aid technology soon to be allowed in province In 2025, Health Canada approved Apple’s Hearing Aid Feature and Hearing Test Feature in an effort to offer hearing assistance for people with mild to moderate hearing loss. The features found in its AirPod Pro 2 and 3 series are currently turned off until new provincial legislation takes effect. In 2025, CTV News spoke with Barry Buckler, of Markham, after he purchased the AirPods Pro to use them as hearing aids but was disappointed to find out the technology was not allowed to be used. “Once I read that Health Canada had given their approval... I went out and bought myself a pair,” Buckler said and added, “These AirPods seemed to be absolutely the thing that I would need and others seniors would benefit from as well.” Apple AirPods are already being used as hearing aids in over 100 countries. In a statement to CTV News from the Ontario Ministry of Health, a spokesperson said that “our government is taking action to make Ontario’s healthcare system more accessible, innovative and responsive to the needs of patients.” “By removing outdated legislative and regulatory barriers to over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids, we’re giving adults with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss more choice, greater convenience, and access to new technologies. Our proposal enables the use of OTC hearing aids and does not impact pricing for the devices.” “Following overwhelming support during our public consultation, we’re moving forward with changes that will expand consumer choice, encourage competition, and help bring innovative hearing solutions to Ontario. These changes will complement—not replace—prescription hearing aids and professional hearing care while preserving access to funding support for prescribed devices through the Assistive Devices Program,” said the ministry. The changes will not affect funding for those who receive help paying for hearing aids using the assistive devices program.
