Comparing experiences of over-the-counter and audiologist-fitted hearing aids
Barriers and Facilitators to OTC Hearing Aids Success
NA · University of Iowa · NCT06499805
This study looks at how people with mild-to-moderate hearing loss feel about using over-the-counter hearing aids compared to those fitted by an audiologist to see which option works better for their hearing and quality of life.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 360 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 89 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Iowa (other) |
| Locations | 2 sites (Iowa City, Iowa and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT06499805 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the experiences of individuals with mild-to-moderate hearing loss who choose between over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids and traditional audiologist-fitted hearing aids. Participants will self-diagnose and fit their OTC hearing aids or receive professional fitting through the AUD pathway. The study will track their outcomes over a 12-month period to understand the long-term effects of each approach on their quality of life and hearing capabilities. Conducted at two sites in Iowa City, IA, and Nashville, TN, the study aims to provide insights into the accessibility and effectiveness of OTC hearing aids.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults with perceived bilateral mild-to-moderate hearing loss who have no previous experience with hearing aids.
Not a fit: Patients who are non-native English speakers may not benefit from this study due to language barriers in understanding the self-diagnosis and fitting process.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance accessibility to hearing aids, leading to improved hearing and quality of life for individuals with hearing loss.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown the feasibility of self-fitting hearing aids, but this study aims to provide new insights into the long-term impact of OTC hearing aids compared to traditional methods.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * adult-onset, perceived bilateral mild-to-moderate hearing loss * no previous hearing aid experience Exclusion Criteria: * Non-native speaker of English
Where this trial is running
Iowa City, Iowa and 1 other locations
- University of Iowa — Iowa City, Iowa, United States (RECRUITING)
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center — Nashville, Tennessee, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Yu-Hsiang Wu, PhD — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Yu-Hsiang Wu, PhD
- Email: yu-hsiang-wu@uiowa.edu
- Phone: 319-335-8728
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Hearing Loss, Sensorineural, Presbycusis