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Veterans with mild to moderate hearing loss could soon face fewer hurdles when seeking hearing aids through the VA under newly introduced bipartisan legislation. The Veterans Hearing Aid Improvement Act would allow eligible Veterans to access over-the-counter hearing aids through the VA without needing a prescription-fitted device, making hearing care faster and more accessible for many.
Hearing loss and tinnitus remain the most common service-connected disabilities among Veterans. More than 2.5 million Veterans experience some level of hearing loss, often tied to repeated exposure to explosions, gunfire, heavy machinery, and aircraft during military service. While the VA provides full coverage for prescription hearing aids, the current process often requires multiple audiology appointments, evaluations, and fittings. For some Veterans, especially those living in rural or high-demand areas, long wait times discourage them from seeking care altogether.
The Veterans Hearing Aid Improvement Act is sponsored by Sens. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), and Chuck Grassley (R-IA). The proposed legislation would create a two-year pilot program at a minimum of two VA medical facilities in different Veterans Integrated Services Networks. Veterans who qualify would still receive an initial clinical evaluation from an audiologist to confirm that over-the-counter hearing aids are appropriate for their level of hearing loss. Once approved, they could receive FDA-cleared over-the-counter devices without the need for repeated follow-up fittings.
Over-the-counter hearing aids have been available to the general public since 2022, after the FDA approved them for adults with mild to moderate hearing loss. These devices are designed to be self-fitted, allowing users to adjust settings through built-in software or smartphone apps. While widely available at retail stores, Veterans have not previously been able to obtain these devices through the VA healthcare system.
Supporters of the bill say the change could help Veterans receive care sooner while reducing appointment backlogs at VA audiology clinics. Early treatment of hearing loss can help slow further decline and improve communication, safety, and overall quality of life. The pilot program would also collect data comparing the effectiveness and cost of over-the-counter hearing aids with traditional prescription devices.
The bill includes oversight and reporting requirements to evaluate outcomes and financial impact. The VA would be required to submit an interim report after the first year and a final report to Congress at the conclusion of the program. These reports would assess patient satisfaction, hearing outcomes, and whether permanent coverage of over-the-counter hearing aids would be cost-effective for the VA.
Veterans with more complex or severe hearing loss would continue to rely on prescription hearing aids fitted by audiologists, which remain essential for advanced hearing needs. However, advocates argue that over-the-counter options provide a practical alternative for many Veterans whose hearing loss does not require specialized devices.
The legislation has received support from several national Veterans organizations, including The American Legion. Legion leaders have long advocated for policies that improve access to timely health services and reduce unnecessary delays within the VA system. If successful, the pilot program could help modernize hearing care and expand options for Veterans nationwide.
Author: Rikki Almanza
Rikki is a Web Content Coordinator for the American Legion, Department of California. With a deep-rooted family connection to the military, Rikki is committed to using her skills and knowledge to provide valuable assistance and resources to servicemembers and veterans.
