When to consider an upgrade
Learn how to determine the right time to upgrade to a new sound processor
What you'll find on this page
- Identify when it’s time to replace your sound processor
- Hear about an upgrade experience from another recipient
Designed for better hearing for life
One of the most exciting things about Cochlear technology is that it continues to evolve. Next-generation sound processors are designed to deliver clearer sound, new connections and capabilities, and work with your existing implant, so there is no need for additional surgery.*
When to consider an upgrade
As you think about replacing your sound processor for next-generation technology, one consideration is whether you prefer to self-pay or use insurance benefits.
Insurance eligibility
Typically, insurance eligibility for a medically necessary sound processor upgrade occurs when:
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AND one or more of the following: |
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The sound processor is retired or obsolete, which is a normal part of a product life cycle that occurs as technology advances.Cochlear technology is constantly evolving. Next-generation sound processors are designed to deliver new capabilities and work with your existing implant.* As new technology is developed, older sound processors may become outdated and obsolete. Cochlear may decide to phase out production and support of aging technology, after which time, parts and accessories may no longer be available. |
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The sound processor is lost or stolen.Should your sound processor get lost or stolen, your insurance company may permit an upgrade to the latest generation sound processor as a viable replacement. |
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There is a demonstrated improvement in hearing performance with next-generation technology. |
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The sound processor has reached its “end of useful life”—usually after five or more years of continuous use.As with all technology, there is a time period it is likely to remain in service before newer technology supersedes it. Some insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, may authorize a replacement sound processor when it has reached or passed a stated period of "useful life," usually five years. |
Nancy shares her experience with the Cochlear™ Nucleus® 8 Sound Processor and how it gives her the confidence to participate in social activities.
More information
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.
Information provided by Cochlear Americas regarding insurance coverage or reimbursement is provided as guidance only and is not intended as reimbursement or legal advice. Cochlear Americas makes no representation or warranty regarding such information or its completeness, accuracy, fitness for a particular purpose, or that following such guidance will result in any form of coverage or reimbursement from any insurer. Information presented is subject to change at any time. To be sure that you have the most current and applicable information available for your unique circumstances, please consult your own experts and seek your own legal advice regarding your reimbursement needs. In all cases, products or services billed must be medically necessary, actually performed and appropriately documented in the medical record.
As of Feb 1, 2018, Cochlear provides direct insurance billing support for many major private insurance plans, Medicare, Medicaid† (including HMOs) and Tricare for repairs, parts and accessories. Cochlear’s full-service billing support is available for recipients who are covered under one of the plans with whom Cochlear is contracted. If you would like to place an order for a replacement part or accessory, please keep in mind orders may take up to 2 weeks to process and ship, so please plan ahead.
Cochlear is currently enrolled with Medicaid programs in the following states: AL, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, and WY.
For compatibility information, visit www.cochlear.com/compatibility.
*Updated sound processors are designed to work with your existing implant, therefore surgery to access new technology is typically not required.