Sounding off-Pharmacist insights on over-the-counter hearing aids: A qualitative focus group study

Hearing loss affects an estimated 30 million individuals in the United States significantly affecting communication, social engagement, and overall quality of life. In August 2022, the Food and Drug Administration published its final rule creating a regulatory category for over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids for adults with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss. Few studies have assessed pharmacists' readiness to provide patient support for these devices.

This qualitative study assessed pharmacist adoption and sustainable implementation of pharmacist-provided OTC hearing aids.

Community pharmacists were invited to participate in focus groups through self-selection via electronic invitations sent from the institution's continuing professional development e-mail listserv. An interview guide was developed based on selected constructs of the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR). A thematic analysis was conducted on the transcribed interviews and coded by investigators. Focus groups were conducted until a point of saturation was reached (4 focus groups, 23 participants). Qualitative results spanned all 5 CFIR domains.

Pharmacists viewed convenience and accessibility as major advantages offered by OTC hearing aids and felt the sale of OTC hearing aids fit logically within existing pharmacy workflow. However, they cited a lack of knowledge, skills, and training on the subject and devices, which influenced their reported lack of motivation and commitment to engage in selling OTC hearing aids. Pharmacists expressed frustration with the complex nature of these devices, noting significant variances in quality, technological sophistication, and cost.

Findings from our study clearly indicate a need for training and education opportunities for pharmacists who offer or will offer OTC hearing aids. Establishing a collaborative relationship with audiologists may help bridge the gap in knowledge and skills for pharmacists.