The cochlear implant difference

I’m thrilled to have recently activated a patient’s cochlear implant. Like many of the people we work with, he has suffered from hearing loss for many years. When he noticed the quality of his speech understanding with his hearing aids on was not enough anymore, we suggested he get tested for cochlear implant candidacy.

As an audiologist, it’s incredibly rewarding to offer this life-changing piece of technology that allows patients to reconnect with their loved ones and the world around them. Since we are members of the CPN, the Cochlear Provider Network, we are qualified to handle every aspect of an implementation—from assessment for candidacy to activation—except the minimally invasive surgery.

I did an externship at University Hospitals, where the surgery is done, and know the doctors performing them. They are extremely accomplished, and we are lucky to work with them.

Cochlear implants offer a different way of hearing than hearing aids, since the auditory nerve is directly stimulated by the implant. It mimics the function of a healthy inner ear by bypassing the damaged part of the system and sending signals directly to the nerve for processing. People can once again understand speech and access sounds that were not audible to them before the implantation.

What I recommend for those who may feel that their hearing aids no longer provide the level of understanding they need, or those with profound hearing loss, is to come in and get a diagnostic evaluation for cochlear implants. My top priority is making sure my patients know their options and have all the information they need to make good choices for themselves and their hearing. 

Amanda’s Family Hearing is located at 1701 Mentor Avenue, Suite 5, in Painesville. Cochlear implants are covered by most insurance plans. Call 440-357-4327 or visit AmandasFamilyHearing.com.