Speech processors are computers worn on the person and can come in a body pack - about the size of a deck of cards. Use of the phone varies among individuals. Some people plug into the speech processor directly. Others hold the phone up to the ear, while others are not able to use the phone comfortably after their implant. Medicare covers cochlear implants.
Research shows that they improve the quality of life and are therefore cost-effective interventions.
A variety of assistive devices can be combined with cochlear implants to improve their effectiveness. For example, patch cords can connect speech processors to assistive listening devices. However, the first step in a careful hearing aid selection process is choosing a hearing health professional you feel confident in. An audiologist or hearing instrument specialist usually dispenses a hearing aid, although some ENTs also dispense hearing aids. A physician who specializes in the ear is sometimes called an Otolaryngologist or Otologist.