Saskatchewan is moving forward with the Cochlear Implant Program effective as of Dec. 1.
Naim Gillies, Saskatchewan Deaf and Hard of Hearing Society Executive Director stated, “This program will have a profound impact in the lives of those who rely on this technology to improve their hearing.”
An estimation set by the Ministry of Heath proclaimed in this fiscal year that approximately 70 sound processors needed to be replaced, which is approximately 50 hearing devices every year. Each external processor is required to be replaced every five to seven years with a cost of $8,000 to $12,000.
Health Minister Paul Merriman says he is pleased that the program is expanding, which will ensure that these life-changing devices remain accessible for all Saskatchewan residents.”
This fiscal year, the annual estimated cost is around $300,000, with the Ministry of Health providing approximately $446,000 to maximize the cost. This will benefit the residents when they want to replace their cochlear processor. In effect as of Dec. 1, those that require the cochlear processor replacement will now only pay $840, with the balance covered by the ministry itself for each replacement of cochlear processor.
A similar program is set out in British Columbia which helped to model this program.
Other provinces who are applying government co-pay programs for replacing external sound processors are Ontario and Alberta.
If you require more information, please contact Health Regina at 306.787-4083 or email [email protected].
