The price of hearing.

So...my CI processor may have died.

Two years ago I replaced my original processor with a refurbished one for $900.  Including batteries, that processor cost $1400 for the last two years.

I will look into replacing parts or another refurbished processor. If those are no longer an option, then I will need to upgrade to the newest processor. What's the cost for an upgrade? $9,000.  That does not have an extra zero. Dang, last time I checked on upgrading, it was "only" 8 grand.

When I gathered quotes for health insurance in January, they all stated CI external parts would not be covered and I signed up for my husband's policy. I will call my insurance on Monday and provide billing codes to double-check my coverage. My benefits paperwork is fuzzy about Cochlear Implants. It does not cover hearing aid services, it specifically excludes external equipment for bone anchored  hearing aids (two links provided) but a BAHA is not a CI. After inputting the CI repair/replacement/upgrade codes online for "other services provided", it states prior authorization is required for CI repairs or upgrades. Perhaps they overlooked that page and this coverage is no longer offered. I hope all I need to do is receive authorization because I am not in a financial place in my life where I can afford the 9 grand price tag.

 When it comes to hearing technology, what does it cost? I'll cover the two I've personally use: Hearing Aids and Cochlear Implant.

 If someone uses Hearing Aids:
 People must pay out of pocket because it's rarely covered by insurance. Even when insurance covers hearing aids, it's only for $1,000. Hearing aids are expensive! There are $500 models out there but just because you can only afford $500 doesn't mean you'll be able to hear anything.
Batteries are cheap compared to the actual hearing aids. I've forgotten how much I used to spend but it looks like people spend between $30-150 annually.

If someone uses a Cochlear Implant:
Cost of initial surgery: free with deductible. Depending on your insurance plan.
Batteries are $250+ annually. This includes one re-chargeable battery and backup disposables. Double this price for those with bilateral CIs.
-Price of individual pieces. What's broken on mine could be as cheap as $300, as expensive as $3000. (That's why if it's not the cheaper piece, you're better off getting refurbished).
-Refurbished processor is $900.
-Replacement or upgrades is $9000.  (Let's assume Ins. will NOT cover this). update  7/23: definitely not covered. I'll be looking into ways to get my CI covered, because I certainly do not have 9 grand hiding under my sofa. 


Just for fun, I'll mention the CI-compatible stethoscope I'll be using for Nursing school is going to cost $1500. I'm currently in the process of purchasing the stethoscope package. A fully functioning stethoscope will be the 'scope itself, software, and the accessory cord to connect to my CI processor.  I will require an Audiologist to help me with the software and training, but at least my co-pay will only be $50 per visit.

 A person who uses a hearing aid or Cochlear Implant will always default to deafness when the equipment breaks. And it will break. It will need repairs, replacements, and someday the equipment will be outdated and your choice is to upgrade or have nothing. If this person can afford it, they will have a backup in their dresser drawer... If not, they will be deaf until their device is fixed. To some, that isn't bothersome, to others it would drastically reduce their quality of life.

I need to replace my processor, purchase stethoscope, learn how to use it.
Oh, and by the way, I start nursing school in one month. No pressure.

That's the price of hearing.