The Effect of What Adults Know and Think About Hearing Loss and Cochlear Implantation on Utilization Rates Across the United States

An aging demographic in the West is resulting in an increasing number of patients who qualify for cochlear implantation. Utilization of cochlear implants among qualifying adults in the United States is currently influenced by many factors. Among these, patient awareness and appreciation of adult-onset hearing loss and its health sequelae, along with perceptions regarding cochlear implantation as a treatment option, significantly impact patients’ motivations to seek rehabilitation with cochlear implantation.

Cochlear implantation as a treatment option for adult hearing loss remains underutilized. Recent large surveys of adults within the United States identify limited awareness surrounding hearing loss as a chronic disease state and cochlear implants as a treatment option. Limited awareness extends beyond the general populace and includes healthcare professionals crucial to the detection and referral process. Despite overarching limited familiarity, patients’ perceptions surrounding cochlear implants are slowly becoming favorable.

Underutilization of cochlear implants among qualifying adults in the United States is compounded by limited awareness and appreciation of hearing loss as a chronic disease state with significant long-term health sequelae. Efforts to improve patients’ and providers’ understanding of the importance of hearing loss as a chronic disease state and the utility of cochlear implant rehabilitation are vital.