Ontario considers allowing over-the-counter hearing aids

TORONTO — Ontarians with mild hearing loss could soon have access to over-the-counter hearing aids, under a regulatory change the government is considering.

The Ministry of Health has launched a 30-day consultation on allowing the sale and use of certain devices that function as hearing aids, without a prescription.

Health Minister Sylvia Jones says access to over-the-counter hearing aids would reduce barriers for people with hearing loss.

Health Canada has issued medical device licences for some wireless earbuds that have built-in hearing aid capabilities, but Ontario law currently bans selling a hearing aid unless it is prescribed by a doctor or audiologist.

The government says the Assistive Devices Program would still provide up to 75 per cent of the cost of prescribed hearing aids.

It says allowing over-the-counter hearing aids would complement the existing hearing aid prescription system and provide people with more choice.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 28, 2026.

Allison Jones, The Canadian Press