The world’s first International Consensus Paper on Adult Cochlear Implantation was published on August 27, 2020 in JAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery. This new study focuses on treatment for adults living with severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) which recommends minimum standards for diagnosis, referral, treatment and aftercare.
The publication is expected to help many more adults with severe to profound bilateral sensorineural hearing loss access cochlear implant treatment, noting the industry estimate that only one in 20 people worldwide who could benefit from a cochlear implant has one.
HLAA played a leading role in this ground-breaking process, with Executive Director Barbara Kelley as co-chair of the Consumer and Professional Advocacy Committee (CAPAC). International cochlear implant user and professional advocacy organizations ensured the voice of consumers was heard throughout the Delphi process.
Dr. Craig Buchman, lead author of the paper, and Dr. René Gifford, one of 31 experts who authored the paper and participated in the Delphi Consensus Process, will talk about why these standards of care are needed at this time and what they mean to people with hearing loss.
