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Expanded access to over-the-counter hearing aids

Home 5 News 5 Expanded access to over-the-counter hearing aids

June 18, 2026

The BC Ministry of Health is amending the Regulated Health Practitioners Regulation to introduce access to over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids.

These changes do not impact audiologist and hearing instrument practitioners’ scope of practice and restricted activities. Audiologists and hearing instrument practitioners continue to play the same critical role in identifying auditory conditions and supporting patients and clients with informed decision-making for auditory care and management. This includes assisting individuals who choose OTC devices with follow up care, device support, outcome evaluation, and transition to prescription based solutions when appropriate.

We appreciate that these amendments may raise questions and concerns, including the risk of individuals forgoing professional care in favour of self-managing their hearing loss. These changes do not replace the need for professional assessment, diagnosis, or comprehensive hearing care by a qualified provider, nor do they impact your ability to practice.

For more information, see the BC Government’s Hearing Aids webpage. If licensees have questions regarding the College regulatory framework, please reach out to practicesupport@chcpbc.org and specify your profession.

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