The Mater Cochlear Implant Clinic (MCIC) consists of a team of professionals who will work with you and your family to achieve the best communication outcome possible. For some people, this will include the fitting of a cochlear implant.
The team typically includes an Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) surgeon, audiologist and speech pathologist. Our team can draw on other services within Mater as needed.
What is a cochlear implant?
A cochlear implant is a hearing device that has an implanted stimulator/receiver and an electrode array of 22 electrodes. An externally worn speech processor sends signals to the electrode array. The implanted electrode array stimulates the hearing nerve inside the inner ear and provides the sensation of sound.
What does an implant sound like?
Cochlear implants do not sound the same as normal hearing however, children implanted at a young age and most adults can learn to make sense of the sound provided.
Cochlear implants provide awareness of environment sound and are an aid to lip reading.
Wearing a hearing aid or cochlear implant will not resolve all the problems caused by having a hearing loss.
How to access our services
Who may benefit from an implant?
Patients who cannot follow normal conversation in a quiet environment with optimally fitted hearing aid/s.
What is the cost?
Public funding is available and covers the complete cost of the implanted device, surgery, programming and ongoing rehabilitation.
Is there a waiting list?
There is a waiting list which can vary in length depending upon demand and funding arrangements at the time.
When should an adult contact MCIC?
Any adult with a severe or profound hearing loss and is having difficulty with communication and hearing can be referred.
What happens if you are referred to MCIC?
After your referral is received, you will be offered an appointment with an audiologist specialising in cochlear implants. The audiologist will perform a screening test to determine if you would benefit from a more comprehensive assessment with the cochlear implant team. You will also have the opportunity to find out more about implant technology and our services. Family members and friends are welcome to attend.
If you decide to proceed, a series of appointments will be needed to complete a comprehensive audiological and psychosocial assessment and to discuss the available options, including cochlear implants.
If you choose to have a cochlear implant, an extensive rehabilitation program is required after surgery.
How do I arrange an appointment?
A medical referral is required.
Contact us
For more information please contact the Mater Cochlear Implant Clinic:
P 07 3163 8743
F 07 3163 1509
E cochlear@mater.org.au
Mater Audiology Department
Corner Raymond Terrace and Stanley Street
South Brisbane, Qld 4101
Our office hours are Monday to Friday, 8 am to 4.30 pm.