Innovations in Hearing Accessibility and Technology (IHAT) Study (NCT06689865)
🩺 Plain-English Summary (8th-Grade Level)
The research will explore outcomes of different service delivery models of over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids by comparing them to prescription hearing aids fitted by specialists in individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss. The investigators will examine how each type affects users' experiences, behavior, thinking skills, and brain activity related to hearing. Additionally, the study will focus on what types of people prefer each hearing aid option, what helps or hinders these choices, and compare the costs of four different service options. This approach will help transition from research findings into real-world practice, providing useful information for healthcare providers and policymakers about OTC hearing aid options.
Who can join: To join this study, participants generally need to meet the listed inclusion criteria (6 items) and avoid the listed exclusions (6 items).
Location: University of Colorado School of Medicine — Aurora, Colorado
📋 "Do I Qualify?" — 1-Minute Self Screener
Instant ChecklistCheck every box below. If you can check all of them, you may meet the study's basic screening requirements (final eligibility is confirmed by the site team).
Usually NOT eligible if any of the following apply:
- Exclusion Criteria:
- Hearing loss that is too severe for OTC HAs
- Middle ear disorders or conductive pathology present
- Asymmetrical hearing loss
- Diagnosed neurological condition such as dementia or Parkinson's disease or a score lower than 25 on the MOCA
- Non-English speaking as it may impact the ability to complete our test battery
🔍 Extracted verbatim from the official NIH eligibility criteria. Always confirm with the study coordinator.
📍 All Participating Trial Locations (2 Sites)
- University of Colorado School of Medicine — Aurora, Colorado
- University of Colorado Boulder — Boulder, Colorado
💰 Cost, Insurance & Patient Rights
- 100% Free Items: The investigational treatment and protocol-required procedures are supplied at zero cost by the sponsor.
- Routine Patient Care: Under federal law (ACA § 2709) and many state statutes, routine care costs are covered during participation.
- Voluntary Participation: You may withdraw at any time without affecting your standard medical care.