The Cochlear Implant International Community of Action
(CIICA) and York University, Toronto, conducted a
ground-breaking survey that reveals the severe financial
pressures cochlear implant (CI) users experience worldwide.
Over half, or a notable 54%, of CI users grapple with
out-of-pocket costs for essential items such as batteries,
replacement parts, and repairs.
Moreover, the survey
brought to light the disparities in post-surgery care. A
concerning 27% of those surveyed stated they received no
rehabilitation following their operation, and an even more
alarming 32% felt that the support they received was
lacking.
Lee Schoushkoff, CEO of the Pindrop
Foundation/NCIT and board member of CIICA, highlighted the
pressing need for changes. “While the life-altering impact
of cochlear implants is clear, these figures stress the
essential call for reform in the way support and services
are delivered, especially with hearing loss costing a
staggering US$980 billion a year to the world
economy.”
As a testament to the effectiveness of CI,
the survey did note a strong 96% satisfaction rate among CI
users. Nikki Moloney, a CI user from Tauranga, remarked,
Returning to the world of sound is a priceless gift; it’s
changed my life immeasurably. I started a new job, can go to
the movies with friends and hear, and enjoy conversations
with my husband and sons.”
Michel Neeff, a CI surgeon
in Auckland, stressed the importance of consistent
post-operative care. It’s crucial that we prevent lapses in
ongoing support from overshadowing the tremendous benefits
of cochlear implants. For CI users, their independence and
quality of life hinge on it,” Neeff noted.
The
in-depth report makes a number of important suggestions,
such as giving people who have had surgery immediate access
to rehabilitation, providing consistent technological
assistance, and creating funding structures that support
long-term service sustainability for CI users.
Leo De
Raeve, Chair of CIICA, encapsulates the report’s
significance: “Cochlear implants aren’t just about restoring
hearing; they’re about restoring lives. We must stand
committed to supporting every CI user today and in the
future.
The Pindrop Foundation, an Aotearoa New
Zealand charity and a foundational member of CIICA,
tirelessly advocates for CI awareness and
education.
To delve into the full report’s details and
insights, click here:
Notes
to Editors:
• This study, involving 1076
participants from 40 countries, spotlights the undeniable
impact of cochlear implants. However, the pressing need for
continuous services is evident.
• Hearing loss
profoundly affects multiple facets of an individual’s life,
with the global cost of unmanaged hearing loss estimated at
a staggering US$980 billion annually.
• Research has
shown that cochlear implantation is a cost-effective and
life-changing solution for adults affected by serious
hearing loss.
• CIICA, an international consortium
of CI user groups, families, and professionals who champion
the cause of increasing accessibility to cochlear
implantation and supporting the development of sustainable
CI
services.
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