How to upgrade your Cochlear sound processor
Begin by understanding the steps to upgrade and how we can help you navigate the process.
What you'll find on this page
- Learn how the sound processor upgrade process works
- Learn about Cochlear’s Reimbursement and Insurance services
Regardless of how you choose to pay for your new sound processor, the Cochlear team is here to help you navigate the upgrade process.
Preparing for a
sound processor upgrade
Step 1
Is it time to upgrade your sound processor?
- Is your sound processor out of warranty?
- Have you lost your sound processor?
- Is your sound processor broken?
- Are you struggling to hear in your usual surroundings?
- Have family or friends noticed changes in your hearing?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, you might be eligible to upgrade.
Step 2
Check your insurance coverage.
Visit our insurance hub for more details about insurance requirements and to see if your plan is in network.
Most major insurance carriers require that your clinic records are up to date and show the medical reason a new sound processor is needed.
Step 3
Submit your order to Cochlear.
Start your order at the online Cochlear store.
If you have questions, don't hesitate to contact us—we're here to support you!
Email: upgrade@cochlear.com
Phone: 800 483 3123
Next steps
Self-Pay
- Cochlear will be in touch with any requests for documentation or next steps.
- Your self-pay upgrade will likely ship within 2-3 weeks.
Cochlear’s Reimbursement and Insurance Services
- Complete any paperwork that Cochlear emailed to you after placing your order.
- Cochlear will work with your clinician to gather the necessary documentation that acts as a prescription for the replacement sound processor.
- Cochlear’s Reimbursement and Insurance Services team will work directly with your health plan to secure the required approvals necessary to file a claim on your behalf.
- Once we receive the required approvals from your insurance, we will collect any coinsurance due and ship your sound processor. You can expect it to arrive in 1-3 business days after shipping.
- If you did not choose to have your sound processor pre-programmed, you will need to schedule an appointment with your audiologist to have it programmed.
- This process typically takes 6-8 weeks from order placement to shipment of the sound processor.
Visit our Insurance Support Center for more detailed information, links to the necessary forms and helpful videos. Generally, the sound processor upgrade process take 6-8 weeks to process and ship when utilizing insurance benefits.
Disclaimer
Please seek advice from your health professional about treatments for hearing loss. Outcomes may vary, and your health professional will advise you about the factors which could affect your outcome. Always read the instructions for use. Not all products are available in all countries. Please contact your local Cochlear representative for product information.
Views expressed are those of the individual. Consult your health professional to determine if you are a candidate for Cochlear technology.
For a full list of Cochlear’s trademarks, please visit our Terms of Use page.
Products or services billed must be medically necessary, actually performed and appropriately documented in the medical record. You will be responsible for paying any applicable coinsurance, deductible, or amounts not covered by your insurance to Cochlear. Coverage determinations and out-of-pocket costs may vary for individuals with private insurance.