Ontario Enabling Access to Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids

Source: Ontario - Ministry of Health
Date: 2026-10-20 14:00:00.0
Tags: [Ontario, Healthcare, Technology, Seniors]

The Ontario government is advancing legislative and regulatory changes through the Health Innovation Pathway to enable the sale and use of Health Canada approved over-the-counter hearing aids for adults with mild to moderate hearing loss. Following a 30-day public consultation launched in April 2026, the updated regulations will allow manufacturers of in-ear headphones and earbuds with hearing aid capabilities to activate these features without requiring a prescription. The new measure operates alongside the existing model of care, meaning prescribed hearing aids will continue to be eligible for up to 75 per cent funding assistance (to a maximum of $500) under the Assistive Devices Program, while over-the-counter devices will not be covered.