Pharmacist Learning Course for OTC Hearing Aids
Created by an audiologist and pharmacist
Pharmacy-Based OTC Hearing Aids
Training Program Activity Description
It is estimated that 28.8 million U.S. adults could benefit from using hearing aids; however, access and cost can be significant barriers to using these devices. In 2017, Congress set forth a process for establishing a new category of hearing aids to be available over the counter (OTC). Following a final ruling from FDA in October 2022, pharmacists must be ready to serve the millions of adults who will be seeking hearing loss solutions for the first time at the community pharmacy. This competency-based certificate program for OTC hearing aids will prepare pharmacists to help patients hear better. This course is estimated to be a 3-hour commitment to learning more about hearing health care; knowledge-based activity provides 3 contact hours of continuing pharmacy education credit.
The target audience for this educational program is pharmacists and student pharmacists. Others are welcome to enroll.
Learners will receive a certificate of completion demonstrating successful understanding of learning competencies. This program fulfills competency statements for pharmacists.
Learning Modules
Module 1: Introduction to hearing loss: Epidemiology and health outcomes
Module 2: Federal laws, regulations, and guidance for OTC hearing aids
Module 3: Overview of the pharmacists’ OTC hearing aid patient care process
Module 4: Recognizing and screening for hearing loss
Module 5: Medications with ototoxic properties: Drug-induced hearing loss
Module 6: Exclusions for self-care: When OTC hearing aids are not appropriate
Module 7: Pharmacological and nonpharmacological self-care options for earwax removal
Module 8: Selection and fitting process for hearing aids
Module 9: Referral to hearing health care professionals for care
About the Continuing Education Provider
The American Pharmacists Association is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education as a provider of continuing pharmacy education.
