Imagine a world where the 1 in 5 adults globally, including our fellow Kiwis, who live with hearing loss, receive the best possible care tailored to their unique needs. That's the world we want to create, and it starts with the Cochlear Implant Living Guidelines for Adults.
These guidelines are more than just words on paper; they are a roadmap to optimising the care of adults who might benefit from a cochlear implant, especially when hearing aids are no longer offering any benefit.
In 2021, a group of international cochlear implant users, experts in audiology, hearing science, and otology came together. They formed a Task Force and partnered with the Cochlear Implant International Community of Action (CIICA). Their mission? To create flexible, living practice guidelines that could be adapted and adopted by countries across the world, including here in Aotearoa New Zealand, tailoring the hearing care for adults who might benefit from cochlear implants.
Regular Hearing Tests Anyone?
Many of us do not think about having a hearing test as part of our routine health check-ups. This often leads to late detection of hearing loss and missed opportunities for early intervention.
So, what if we change that narrative where hearing tests become as routine as having our cholesterol tested after 50? Early detection of hearing loss, or hearing loss progression would help in timely and better access to appropriate hearing solutions. For those diagnosed with severe to profound Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SNHL), these guidelines encourage prompt referral to a qualified hearing specialist. Such a specialist can determine if a cochlear implant might be the right solution for them when hearing aids are no longer enough or suitable.
These Guidelines give clear directions for cochlear implantation, early diagnosis, and timely referral to a cochlear implant centre for thorough evaluation and counselling. Here in New Zealand, these referrals to our publicly funded cochlear implant programmes are location-based.
Where to refer for Cochlear Implants in Aotearoa NZ
Those living North of Taupo, referrals are made to the Northern Cochlear Implant Programme at the Hearing House in Auckland.
For those living South of Taupo, referrals are made to the Southern Cochlear Implant Programme.
Read the Living Guidelines
You can view your copy of the CI Living Guidelines below.
