How is the cost of a cochlear implant paid for?
Most health insurance plans cover the pre-implant candidacy evaluation, the cochlear implant device, hospitalization and surgery, and follow-up visits at the hospital. The family is responsible for yearly theft/loss insurance after the first three years, and usually must pay for a service contract for the processor after the initial three-year warranty expires. The early intervention program or school district is responsible to provide ongoing speech and language therapy, with consultations provided by the hospital staff. The family plays a strong role in advocating and arranging for speech and language therapy, provided by a clinician with specific expertise and experience in cochlear implant habilitation, to be coordinated with the educational program.
