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On October 20, 2026, the Ontario government announced it is proceeding with legislative and regulatory changes that, once passed, will enable access to Over-the-Counter (OTC) hearing aids for adults with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss.
OTC hearing aids are not yet legally accessible in Ontario. Under the current legal framework, hearing aids require a prescription from a physician or audiologist. Legislative and regulatory changes are still required before the proposed changes to enable access to OTC hearing aids can take effect. The new measures will not replace or impact Ontario’s existing model of hearing aid prescription and coverage through the Assistive Devices Program (ADP) but instead will provide an additional option for Ontarians.
The government’s announcement follows a public consultation launched in April 2026 to gather feedback on the potential sale and use of OTC hearing aids in Ontario. CASLPO submitted a response to this consultation, outlining considerations related to safety, effectiveness, potential risks, and regulatory oversight.
In 2025, CASLPO established a Task Force to examine how access to OTC hearing aids could affect public protection, audiology practice and Ontario’s hearing care system. The Task Force’s report, Recommendations to Allow Access to Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids for Ontarians, provides evidence-informed recommendations for introducing OTC hearing aids safely while maintaining public protections. Earlier this year, CASLPO shared the report with the Ministry of Health.
The report recommends allowing access to OTC hearing aid devices for adults aged 18 and older with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss who do not have warning signs of an underlying medical condition and are likely able to manage the technology and seek professional help when needed. In anticipation of the availability of OTC hearing aids in Ontario, 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.
© 2026 CASLPO
© 2026 CASLPO
This website is intended to provide information to the public and registrants. Should there be difference in documentation previously distributed to CASLPO registrants, it is up to the registrant to source the latest version posted on the CASLPO website. Note: the term "member" and "registrant" are used interchangeably throughout CASLPO's website and documents. Both terms are synonymous with "member" as defined in the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991, the Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Act, 1991, and the Regulations under those Acts.
