Perceptions and Concerns Regarding Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids Among the Public, At-Risk Individuals, and Audiology Professionals in Korea

Background and Objectives Despite increased global attention to hearing loss and the proven benefits of hearing aids, the access to adopting the device remains suboptimal for people hard of hearing, particularly in Korea. Over-the-Counter (OTC) hearing aids, recently introduced in the United States, are expected to lower barriers to access. This study aimed to compare, prior to national implementation, perceptions, concerns, and expectations regarding OTC hearing aids among the general public, individuals at risk for hearing loss, and audiology professionals.Subjects and Method A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 200 participants divided into five groups: adults aged 20-50, adults over 60, people at risk for hearing loss, licensed audiologists, and audiology students. Each group completed a validated questionnaire addressing the knowledge, interest, safety, self-adjustment, service concerns, counseling, and efficacy of OTC hearing aids.Results Audiologists and older adults expressed significant concerns about the absence of professional involvement, potential misdiagnosis, difficulties in device handling, and diminished service quality. Meanwhile, younger adults and those at risk of hearing loss were more neutral or optimistic, but they nonetheless demonstrated limited awareness and interest. All groups recognized the potential for improved accessibility through OTC hearing aids; however, concerns about consumer protection, self-management, and lack of counseling were substantial, especially among professionals and older adults.Conclusion While OTC hearing aids may enhance accessibility in Korea, our findings indicate a strong need for targeted education, enhanced consumer protection, and multidisciplinary support systems to ensure safe and effective adoption. Policymakers should consider these group-specific attitudes in strategies for successful integration.