CASLPO News

Update: Ontario Ministry of Health Consultation on OTC Hearing Aids

The Ontario Ministry of Health has launched a public consultation on over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids. The Ministry is seeking feedback to better understand the benefits and risks of allowing OTC hearing aids to be used without a prescription by adults with mild to moderate hearing loss.

The consultation notes that any proposed changes would not replace or impact Ontario’s existing model of prescription and coverage. Instead, OTC hearing aids would provide an additional option to support Ontario patients with more choice and convenience.

What the consultation is exploring 

The Ministry is considering how OTC hearing aids could be introduced in Ontario, including:

• safety and effectiveness
• who would use them and how they may be used
• impacts on access and health equity
• demand and cost

Feedback from this consultation will help guide future government decisions, including whether changes to the current legal framework may be needed.

Current requirements remain in place

Ontario’s legislative framework under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 (RHPA) has not changed. Hearing aids still require a prescription from a physician or audiologist.

CASLPO's Task Force Report on OTC Hearing Aids

In the April issue of The Wave, we shared that CASLPO's OTC Hearing Aids Task Force had completed its report, Recommendations to Allow Access to Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids for Ontarians. The Board of Directors approved the report and CASLPO shared it with the Ministry of Health. It provides evidence-informed recommendations for introducing OTC hearing aids safely in Ontario while maintaining strong public protections.

CASLPO supports efforts to improve timely and equitable access to hearing care. OTC hearing aids may offer an additional entry point for some adults (18+) with mild to moderate hearing loss and help reduce barriers to care. At the same time, hearing loss is a health condition that benefits from appropriate assessment, diagnosis, and ongoing management by regulated health professionals.

CASLPO supports a balanced approach that maintains Ontario’s existing model of regulated, prescription-based care for those who need it, while exploring how OTC options could complement, rather than replace, professional care. We are encouraged to see that the Ontario government is consulting on this matter and look forward to contributing to the consultation process.

We encourage registrants to review the consultation and consider providing feedback to the Ministry of Health.