Evaluation Process

The purpose of the CI evaluation process is to: 

• Determine CI candidacy
• Provide information to the family
• Answer questions
• Make recommendations

The Evaluation process consists of:

1. At least three audiology appointments to:
   
   • Obtain medical and educational history
   • Determine child’s hearing status with and without hearing aids
   • Determine child’s ability to understand speech with hearing aids
   • Provide information to family about hearing, hearing loss and cochlear implants
   • Discuss parent’s perception of and goals for the child
2. A speech and language evaluation to:
   • Document child’s communication abilities
   • Provide information on speech and language development
   • Acquire information about child’s current educational situation and offer support as needed
3. At least two physician visits to:
   • Determine medical candidacy for a cochlear implant
   • Investigate cause of hearing loss (genetic testing, MRI or CT scan)
   • Discuss the surgical aspects and risks involved in surgery