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Cochlear Implant Candidacy Assessment

A cochlear implant candidacy assessment looks at how much benefit you are getting from your current hearing devices. It can help you decide whether a cochlear implant is the right option to improve your hearing and make everyday listening easier. 

What's involved?

As a private patient, you’ll typically undergo the following:

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1. Audiological Assessment

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  • Full diagnostic hearing tests 

  • Assessment of your current hearing aid set up (a hearing aid trial may be arranged if needed)

  • Assessment of how well you understand speech with hearing aids (in quiet and in noise).

  • Information on how cochlear implants work, what to expect, and realistic outcomes.

  • Discussion of device options, possible alternatives if appropriate, surgery, follow-up care, and rehabilitation.

  • Assessment of your communication goals.

  • Speech-language or Psychological, or other assessments may be included depending on individual needs.

  • Planning for post-surgery speech and listening rehabilitation.​

 

2. ENT (Ear, Nose & Throat) Specialist Review

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  • A consultation with Dr Boardman in Launceston (Tasmanian ENT surgeon who specialises in cochlear implants) to confirm surgical suitability. 

  • Imaging (CT and/or MRI) to assess your cochlea and auditory nerve.

Who is eligible?

You may be a candidate for a cochlear implant if you:

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  • Receive limited benefit from well-fitted hearing aids (in one or both ears)

  • Have a significant sensorineural hearing loss in one or both ears.

  • Are medically fit for surgery and motivated to participate in rehabilitation.

 

Eligibility is determined based on clinical guidelines and your personal hearing profile, hearing history and goals

What costs are involved?

  • Appointment Costs​ (using Private Health)

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(Partial Medicare rebates apply with GP referral)

 

  • ​Audiology assessments:

    • $450 candidacy consultation

      • one-off fee, covering full assessment over 1-2, 90 min appointments

  • Further assessment or final consultation prior to surgery (if required ~ $120)

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  • ENT consultation and imaging:

    • Typically $300–$600 

 

  • Surgery (Launceston) and device Costs:  

    • Private health insurance with hospital cover (check with your provider for exclusions or waiting periods - hearing implants are listed under “prosthetic device” and usually covered for Silver  or higher).

    • out of pocket costs for excess/anaesthetist

    • no out of pocket for implant device 

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  • Post-Surgical Care

    • ENT consultation (discuss with surgeon)

    • Device activation and programming (mapping): Bulk Billed to Medicare

 

  • Accessories, batteries, or repairs of the speech processor (after the 3 year warranty) 

    • Hearing Services Program (pensioners, young people up to 26 years, first nations people) may have parts and repair costs covered under nominal annual subscription
    • upgrading the sound processor device
      • no out of pocket costs when upgrading via many Private Health Funds​
      • NDIS funded with no out of pocket if included within plan
      • recipients under 26 years covered under Hearing Australia

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  • Minimal Travel costs (for those living outside Launceston)

    • surgery and surgical consultations 

    • Audiology - limited travel required; we offer appointments in Devonport, Launceston, Hobart

 

Please note: those wishing to access Publicly funded assessments should contact their GP and discuss referral to the Tasmanian Health Service for application to the public waiting list

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