Cochlear Implant Program

Team Members

Surgeons: Dr. L. Parnes, Dr. S. Agrawal
The patient and family also meet with the cochlear implant surgeon to ensure that there are no medical reasons to deny surgery. The surgeon also follows any medical concerns post-operatively.
 
Cochlear Audiologists: J. Lewis Teeter, K. Vansevenant, K. Zimmerman
Potential candidates are introduced to the program through the audiologists who also provide pre and post implant assessments, counselling, and programming of the speech processor. The audiologist also consults with educators and other professionals
 
Social Worker: M. Lee
The social worker assesses and counsels the patient and/or family regarding the psychosocial effects of deafness and the cochlear implant, which may include ensuring appropriate supports are in place.
 
Psychologist: Dr. P. Derry
The psychologist provide psychological assessment during the evaluation, as well as counselling for children and their families regarding their expectations of the cochlear implant.
 
Clerk: C. Cook

Description

The Cochlear Implant Program was established for adults in 1987 and for children in 1989. Funding for cochlear implants in Canada began in 1993 and continues to be provided by the Ministry of Health today. There are a limited number of devices available each year. Consequently, candidates approved for surgery may need to be placed on a waiting list.
 
Cochlear implantation is a recognized and accepted medical procedure for the treatment of severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) in both children and adults.
 
The cochlear implant is a surgically implanted electronic device that provides individuals with the sensation of hearing by bypassing the damaged part of the inner ear. It is recommended for individuals who obtain limited or no benefit from traditional hearing aids.