Economic evaluation of the cochlear implant

Objective: To examine the economic efficiency of current cochlear implant technology under Australian conditions in profoundly deaf adults, partially deafened adults, and children. Methods: Cost-utility study, with weights based on judgments from persons experienced with the technology, and cost data from Australian sources. Results: Quality-of-life improvements due to functional consequences of hearing improvement were greater than those due to amelioration of hearing disability. Costs in Australian dollars per QALY (15-year assessment) ranged from $5,070-$11,100 for children, $11,790-$38,150 for profoundly deaf adults, and $14,410- $41,000 for partially deaf adults. Conclusions: Results suggest cochlear implantation is acceptable value for money when compared with other health programs to which resources are committed in Australia.