Cochlear Implant Cost

• Cochlear implant surgery, including the implant itself, averages between $30,000 and $50,000 for patients without insurance. Some insurance companies do cover the cost of a cochlear implant; the average deductible in the U.S. is about $530 for an individual and $1,100 for a family, and copays range between $5 and $500 for individuals and families, depending upon the plan.
• In addition to the implant, external pieces include a transmitter, which costs between $74 and $100; and a speech processor, which costs between $6,700 and $9,000.
• Cochlear implant surgery requires as many as three pre-surgery office visits. For children, these visits can each cost between $240 and $570, but the national average is $450. For adults, the typical office visit costs between $160 and $385, but the national average is $216.
• After the surgery, the cochlear implant will need to be reprogrammed at least five times in the first year. Reprogramming visits cost $102 to $397 for children under age seven, and $88 to $525 for adults, depending upon the clinic and location.
• The total cost, including both preoperative and postoperative visits and therapy, can cost between $50,000 and $100,000 for those without health insurance, according to the University of Miami. With insurance the cost will range from $1,000 to $50,000, depending upon the deductible and maximum-out-of-pocket expense threshold. People with high-deductible and high maximum-out-of-pocket expense threshold health insurance plans will pay significantly more.

• Cochlear implant surgery costs include the implant, operating room supplies and medications, recovery supplies and medications, physician's fees and anesthesiologist fees.
• The external pieces of the implant system are not included in the surgery fee. These devices include a transmitter and speech processor, which sit behind the ear like a hearing aid. The speech processor analyzes sound, while the transmitter sends a signal to the implant just under the skin.
• Office visits prior to the surgery should include hearing, speech and language evaluations and a CT scan. One visit should also provide the patient with an orientation, tutorial on how to use the implant and an explanation regarding what to expect after surgery.
• After the surgery, post-surgical visits will include a check of the surgical site to make sure healing is going well. Visits will also include reprogramming the speech processor to suit how the sound is interpreted. In some cases a speech and language therapist will also see the patient, to help the patient learn to listen with the implant.

• Cochlear implants rely on batteries to operate. Different implants use different types and sizes of batteries. Some use standard "AA" batteries, which can cost between $.27 and $1 each. Others use typical hearing aid batteries, which can cost between $.70 and $3.95 each. Rechargeable batteries, which cost more, should be replaced annually. Experts recommend that anyone with an implant have another set of batteries with them at all times.
• Most cochlear implants come with a three-year warranty, which covers any maintenance or repairs. Experts recommend that patients purchase an extended warranty for their implant, which can cost between $300 and $400 annually. Without a warranty repair costs could be as high as the initial cost of the implant.

• The Gift of Hearing lists organizations that provide financial assistance for people who want a cochlear implant. Income guidelines will apply.
• The Listen-Up Web also has a list of potential sources for help paying for a cochlear implant.

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• There are several manufacturers of cochlear implants, including Advanced Bionics, Cochlear Corporation and Med-El. Patients should get to know each implant so, if desired, they can request a specific one from their provider.
• Typically, a primary care or ear specialist will recommend a patient for cochlear implant surgery. The surgery will be performed by an otolaryngologist (an ear, nose and throat specialist). Usually otolaryngologists are already connected to a particular hospital. Don't be afraid to ask questions about the surgeon's experience and qualifications before the surgery, either by setting up an appointment or through the primary care physician.
• The House Ear Clinic maintains a list of questions patients should ask prior to surgery. The list includes questions about pre-evaluations, surgery, the reprogramming process and rehabilitation.
• The Gift of Hearing Foundation offers a host of resources for patients considering a cochlear implant.

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