Remote Care: The Future of Cochlear Implants.

Abstract

Objective: The aims of this study were to 1) evaluate whether remote cochlear implant (CI) programming has comparable outcomes to traditional in-person CI management, 1) determine the effects of remote programming on family burden and associated costs, and 1) demonstrate feasibility and satisfaction of remote programming by patients and families for both the adult and pediatric CI populations.

Study design: Prospective study of one CI program.

Patients and intervention: Adult and pediatric patients with at least one CI underwent CI programming via in-person and remote visits.

Main outcome measures: CI programming parameters (impedances, neural response telemetry, upper and lower stimulation levels, datalogging), technology comfort self-report, visit burden and satisfaction, mental health and quality of life.

Results: Fifteen pediatric participants (mean age: 4.17 yr; SD = 3.24) and 15 adult participants (mean age: 56.73 yr; SD = 21.11) were enrolled. In-person and remote programming sessions yielded comparable results for measuring CI programming parameters. Adult and parent participants were highly satisfied with remote programming and reported receiving excellent care. Listening effort was significantly less for the remote visit as compared to the in-person visit for adults. Burden of care to attend the in-person visit was greater for the pediatric population in terms of expenses incurred, unpaid time off work, and coordination of care for other children.

Conclusions: Remote programming is a feasible and effective service delivery model for the adult and pediatric CI population. Inclusion of remote services into postoperative CI protocols should be considered as a means of reducing barriers to hearing healthcare.