If only studies with the highest levels of evidence are taken into account, programmable analog hearing aids must be designated innovative. In fact, despite the limited number of well-conducted studies, there is a consensus that this formula is at least as effective as conventional hearing aids in compensating for hearing impairment. Additional benefits nevertheless seem limited, and the indications for clinical use compared with those of less advanced technologies are not clear. Further controlled trials must be undertaken to gather more information on the efficacy of these solutions. Considering the extra costs and the limited gains found thus far compared with those of conventional hearing aids, cost-benefit analyses must be undertaken before the routine clinical use of programmable analog hearing aids can be recommended.
