Over-the-counter hearing aids have recently become available to patients who suffer from mild to moderate perceived hearing loss. The availability of these devices might seem like a convenient alternative to prescription hearing aids, but they lack a number of benefits that could greatly enhance the quality of life for hearing-impaired patients.

"Over-the-counter hearing aids are designed to be a one-size-fits-all solution. That will fall short for many patients, because no two hearing problems are the same," reports board-certified audiologist Amanda Hidalgo, AuD, CCC-A, ABAC. "Prescription hearing aids are tailored to meet a patient’s unique individual needs – from the fit of the device to specific amplification and other program settings."

It all begins with a hearing test. With decades of experience and Doctorate degrees in audiology, Watson Clinic’s Hearing Center team offers comprehensive evaluations that assess the nature and degree of each patient’s hearing loss. From there, a hearing device will be selected that will prove most effective in correcting a patient’s hearing loss, and they will be custom fitted for maximum comfort.

When a patient’s condition requires more specialized medical attention, appointments can be swiftly arranged with one of Watson Clinic’s board-certified otolaryngologists.

Additional services provided by the Hearing Center include evaluations and programming for cochlear implants and bone anchored devices, as well as hearing aid repairs and supplies. Over-the-counter hearing aids are also offered through the Hearing Center for patients who prefer to pursue this approach.

The Watson Clinic Hearing Center is housed in both the Bella Vista Building and Highlands locations in Lakeland. For more information or to schedule an evaluation, visit WatsonClinic.com/HearingCenter or call 863-904-6296.