Sound Processors
Cost of Maintenance and Replacement
Cochlear implants require regular maintenance, particularly for external components like sound processors. Over time, wear and tear or technical issues make servicing essential. However, replacing a sound processor is costly, with prices increasing as the device ages. Manufacturers often introduce newer models, making older versions more expensive to repair or replace. For families from economically weaker sections, these costs create financial stress. Unlike surgery, which is a one-time expense, maintenance is ongoing, making long-term affordability a major concern. Without financial assistance or subsidies, many users struggle to keep their devices functioning, affecting their ability to hear and communicate.
Manufacturer Policies and Incremental Costs
Manufacturers typically estimate a sound processor’s lifespan at 3-4 years, though with proper care, it may last 7-8 years. However, older devices require frequent servicing, and replacement parts become harder to find. As processors age, manufacturers often increase costs, making upgrades expensive. Some companies phase out older models, forcing users to purchase costly replacements. These pricing policies disproportionately impact financially weaker families, who may delay necessary upgrades due to affordability concerns. Without accessible upgrade options or cost-effective solutions, long-term cochlear implant use remains a challenge for many individuals, highlighting the need for more user-friendly policies.
Availability of Parts and Out-of-Production Issues
Discontinuation of sound processors or components makes finding replacement parts difficult. Users often face long wait times, increased repair costs, or forced upgrades. These issues are particularly severe in developing countries, where supply chains are limited. Delays in repairs can lead to extended periods without a functional device, disrupting communication, education, and work. Alternative or aftermarket parts are not always available, leaving users with limited options. Ensuring long-term availability of essential components and establishing accessible service centres can help to mitigate these challenges, allowing individuals to maintain their devices without unnecessary financial or logistical burdens.
Financial Burden and Need for Support
The high cost of cochlear implant maintenance creates financial strain, particularly for low-income families. Regular servicing, repairs, and replacements require significant investment, forcing many to seek financial aid from government programs, NGOs, or charities. However, bureaucratic delays often slow down assistance, leaving users without a functional implant for extended periods. Access to timely financial support is crucial to ensure continued use of the device. Governments, manufacturers, and non-profit organizations must work together to introduce subsidies, insurance coverage, and cost-effective solutions. Advocacy for better policies can help make cochlear implants more accessible and sustainable for disadvantaged communities.
Tanishka’s Journey
Background
Tanishka Raykar, a 17-year-old from Pune, experienced a significant life change due to meningitis, which led to the loss of her hearing ability at the age of 9. In 2016, Tanishka underwent cochlear implant surgery at Pune.
Initial Success
The cochlear implant enabled her to regain near-normal hearing and speech, allowing her to integrate into a regular school and communicate effectively, enhancing her quality of life and educational experiences.
The Challenge
By October 2022, the sound processor provided to Tanishka in 2016 had become obsolete and was no longer functioning properly.
The cost for repairs was substantial, and an upgrade was necessary. The new sound processor was priced at Rs. 3,12,900/=.
Tanishka’s father, the sole earning member of the family, faced financial difficulties.
The Support
The Make My Dream Foundation stepped in to assist with the following contributions:
- Personal Contribution: Tanishka’s father raised hand loans and contributed Rs. 2.00 lakhs.
- Make My Dream Foundation’s Contribution: Raised Rs. 1.00 lakh.
- Deferment: Mandke Hearing Services allowed a deferment in payment for the balance of Rs. 12,900/=.
The Outcome
With these combined efforts, the project was successfully completed in December 2022.
The timely support ensured Tanishka to continue her education seamlessly and maintain her academic progress.
She is currently pursuing her 12th standard Arts.
The Impact
Tanishka’s journey underscores the transformative impact of timely and compassionate support in overcoming significant challenges. Her continued success in education is a testament to the power of community support and strong efforts of Make My Dream Foundation.
Gauri’s Journey
Background
Gauri Pansare, a 13-year-old from Village Nimboli, Ahmednagar, experienced bilateral profound sensorineural hearing loss since birth. In January 2016, Gauri underwent cochlear implant surgery at Pune.
Initial Success
The cochlear implant enabled her to regain near-normal hearing and speech, allowing her to integrate into a regular school and communicate effectively, enhancing her quality of life and educational experiences.
The Challenge
By January 2024, the sound processor provided to Gauri in 2016 had become obsolete and was no longer functioning properly.
The cost for repairs was substantial, and an upgrade was necessary. The new sound processor was priced at Rs. 3,12,900/=.
Gauri’s father, the sole earning member of the family, faced financial difficulties.
The Support
The Make My Dream Foundation stepped in to assist with the following contributions:
- Personal Contribution: Gauri’s father raised hand loans and contributed Rs. 212900/=.
- Make My Dream Foundation’s Contribution: Raised Rs. 1.00 lakh.
The Outcome
With these combined efforts, the project was successfully completed in July 2024.
The timely support ensured Gauri to continue her education seamlessly and maintain her academic progress.
She is currently pursuing her 7th standard.
The Impact
Gauri’s journey underscores the transformative impact of timely and compassionate support in overcoming significant challenges. Her continued success in education is a testament to the power of community support and strong efforts of Make My Dream Foundation.
Ruturaj Belanke’s Journey
Background
Ruturaj Belanke, a 13-year-old from Village Ganeshwadi, Kolhapur, experienced bilateral profound sensory neural hearing loss since birth. In 2013, Ruturaj underwent cochlear implant surgery at Pune.
Initial Success
The cochlear implant enabled him to regain near-normal hearing and speech, allowing him to integrate into a regular school and communicate effectively, enhancing his quality of life and educational experiences.
The Challenge
By May 2024, the sound processor provided to Ruturaj in 2013 had become obsolete and was no longer functioning properly.
The cost for repairs was substantial, and an upgrade was necessary. The new sound processor was priced at Rs. 3,12,900/=.
Ruturaj’s father, the sole earning member of the family, faced financial difficulties.
The Support
The Make My Dream Foundation stepped in to assist with the following contributions:
- Personal Contribution: Ruturaj’s father raised hand loans and contributed Rs. 190000/=.
- Make My Dream Foundation’s Contribution: Raised Rs. 1.23 lakh.
The Outcome
With these combined efforts, the project was successfully completed in September 2024.
The timely support ensured Ruturaj to continue his education seamlessly and maintain his academic progress.
He is currently pursuing 7th standard.
The Impact
Ruturaj’s journey underscores the transformative impact of timely and compassionate support in overcoming significant challenges. His continued success in education is a testament to the power of community support and strong efforts of Make My Dream Foundation.
Purva’s Journey
Background
Purva Kadam, from Baramati, born with bilateral congenital profound sensorineural hearing loss. Purva underwent cochlear implant surgery in January 2009 at Pune.
Initial Success
After receiving the cochlear implant, Purva integrated into a regular school and developed near-normal speech and communication abilities. The cochlear implant played a crucial role in her ability to engage with mainstream society, enhancing her quality of life and educational experiences.
The Challenge
The Support
Purva’s mother reached out to the Make My Dream Foundation in 2017 for financial assistance.
The Outcome
Thanks to the upgrade, Purva’s hearing was significantly improved.
She successfully completed her 12th standard and is now in the process of getting admission in ISER for doctorate as she is aspiring to become scientist.
The Impact
This new chapter in her life reflects her determination and the pivotal role that proper hearing assistance has played in her educational and career goals.
Purva’s story is a testament to the positive impact of dedicated support and community involvement in transforming lives.