Exploring effects of service model and the age of intervention on cochlear implant outcomes

Abstract

Introduction: The outcomes of cochlear implantation depend on multiple factors. Several studies have investigated the impact of intervention age, communication mode, and socioeconomic status on intervention outcomes. Nonetheless, there is limited research on how different service models influence parental perception of the implantation process. The present study attempts to explore the effects of intervention age and eligibility criteria-based service on parental perspectives. Method: The Parents’ perspective questionnaire was adapted and modified to suit the social and cultural context of the Indian population. The translated versions of the questionnaire comprising items under the domains of communication, education, and service of the implant center were posed to 102 eligible parents. The effects of the age of surgical and therapeutic intervention were studied on the communication and education outcomes, respectively, whereas the effect of scheme type was studied on the domain of service of the implant center. Subjective responses were also recorded. Results: A comparison of parental ratings suggests no significant differences in the improvement of spoken language or academic competence between the groups. However, significant differences were found in parental concerns regarding their child’s pronunciation. Parents who had self-financed the implantation and habilitation had the least positive responses to questions regarding the services of the implant center. Concerns reported by parents included costs of repair and maintenance, as well as access to counseling services. Conclusion: The insights gained from the study can contribute to the enhancement of service quality. This can be realized through efforts to address parental concerns and facilitate improved access to information and counseling services.