The team approach is used in many implant centers. The people on the team will evaluate your child and family to see if people on the team will evaluate your child and family to see if a cochlear implant is a good choice.
Here's a list of people who may be on the team:
• An audiologist will test your child's hearing with and without hearing aids.
• A speech and language pathologist will test your child's language skills.
• An otolaryngologist will check to see if your child has an infection or other problem that would interfere with the implant. The doctor may order an MRI or CT scan to look at the structure of the inner ear.
• A teacher of the deaf or educational consultant will tell you about educational programs for your child.
• A social worker will talk to you about whether your family is able to do the work that is needed. The social worker may also help you figure out who will pay for the implant.
• A psychologist will talk to you and your child about your goals, concerns and fears about cochlear implantation.