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The Patient Journey

Our team of professionals will ensure that you are cared for throughout the entirety of your cochlear implant journey.

Cochlear Implant Pathway

While not everybody's cochlear implant journey is the same, there is a typical pathway that an adult follows to getting a cochlear implant.

01

Candidacy Assessment

The first step is referral for a candidacy assessment. Often your usual audiologist will refer you for an assessment or they may have training in cochlear implants. A candidacy assessment typically includes:

  • Comprehensive case history and diagnostic testing
  • Functional and Quality of Life assessment
  • Assessment of aided speech perception with optimally programmed hearing aids
  • Counselling regarding outcomes and expectations
  • Discussion of funding pathways
  • Referral to ENT specialist for one or both ears

If you are determined to be a candidate, you will then be referred for a review with a specialist ENT.

02

Pre-Op Medical assessment

The second step is a specialist evaluation with an ENT specialist that performs cochlear implantation. This typically includes:

  • Medical and hearing case history
  • Physical ENT examination
  • Radiological investigations (e.g. MRI & CT scans)
  • Counselling about expectations and outcomes
  • Counselling about CI surgery and related costs

03

Surgery

If you are an audiological and medical candidate, then the next step is surgery. Typically, during surgery:

  • The implant is inserted into the cochlea
  • The implant is tested to ensure functionality
  • Post operative recovery

04

Post-Op Appointments

Following successfully surgery:

  • Post op review with ENT Specialist
  • Implant activation and counselling with audiologist
  • Ongoing device management and appointments
  • Auditory rehabilitation program and training
  • Annual follow-up appointments after first year to include mapping, device evaluation, and speech perception testing

05

Ongoing management and Care

Holistic patient care will be ongoing:

  • New technology and review of external speech processors including non-implanted ear
  • Replacement of batteries
  • Additional listening devices and equipment
  • Quality of Life and functional outcome reviews
  • Holistic patient review with primary communication partners

We know that clear and open communication is essential

Whether you’re a patient, healthcare professional, or GP seeking more information or support, our team is ready to assist you.

Reach out to us for a prioritised referral, inquiries about implantable hearing technology, or to learn more about our services. Let us connect you with the care and expertise you need.

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