Q. Is there an age limit for cochlear implantation?
A. No, adults of all ages have successfully received cochlear implants after medical consent from a physician.

Q. Can a person who hears some words with hearing aids, but struggles to hear on the telephone and in noise still be a candidate for cochlear implants?
A. Yes, even people who have the ability to understand some speech with hearing aids may be able to perform better with cochlear implants.

Q. How much benefit I can receive with a cochlear implant?
A. There are three main factors that determine how well you will hear with a cochlear implant—your biology, your (re)habilitation effort, and the technology. Everyone who receives cochlear implants should be expected to make continual progress compared to hearing aids. How much and how rapid the progress depends not only on the technology, but also on biology and (re)habilitation.

Q. Are cochlear implants covered by health insurance and Medicaid?
A. Yes, most health insurance carriers, including Medicaid, cover the cost of cochlear implants. The amount of coverage varies by region of the country and insurance carrier. Contact the Advanced Bionics Insurance Reimbursement Department for questions about coverage.

Now that you have a better understanding of cochlear implants, you are ready to take the next step in your Harmony Journey to Hearing: Choosing the implant that is right for you.

Next: Real Stories: Choosing>>