.
Northern
Cochlear Implant Programme chief executive Lee Schoushkoff
says the annual funding increase will help to ensure the
waiting list doesn’t continue to increase beyond demand,
while providing certainty to hundreds of New Zealanders who
have waited years for a cochlear implant – without any
guarantee they would receive one.
“We are extremely
relieved that the Government has listened to our calls for
action, and prioritised adult cochlear implant funding,”
says Lee.
“Until today’s announcement many on the
waiting list faced the prospect of never hearing again. They
now have an opportunity to not only have their hearing
restored, but to re-enter the workforce and excel in their
Press Release – NCIP and SCIP New Zealands two cochlear implant providers are delighted that todays Budget finally includes a sustained funding increase to better meet the growing demand for these life-changing devices. Southern Cochlear Implant Programme chief executive …
New Zealand’s two cochlear implant providers are delighted that today’s Budget finally includes a sustained funding increase to better meet the growing demand for these life-changing devices.
Southern Cochlear Implant Programme chief executive Neil Heslop says, “We have been campaigning for years for a long-term, sustainable funding increase to meet the growing backlog and demand for adult cochlear implants.
“Today’s brilliant news means more adults will now receive access to cochlear implant technology which, as well as the direct patient benefits, has an excellent social, community and economic return on investment.”
Cochlear implants are not covered by health insurance and only 20 per cent of patients can find the money. Dr Amanda Kvalsvig, an epidemiologist working on the country’s Covid-19 response, said, having waited for a cochlear implant herself, she was excited for those on the waiting list.
JOHN KIRK-ANDERSON/STUFF “Access to communication is not a nice-to-have. It’s essential for wellbeing, Kvalsvig said. “I don’t think many people understand the impact of losing your hearing on your sense of belonging, your sense of purpose, even your sense of identity. “It’s not just interactions with strangers of course – it’s your own family. I had no idea what my children’s voices sounded like.”
Government delivers on cochlear implant promise but 200 people will still miss out on live-changing device stuff.co.nz - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from stuff.co.nz Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.