Multi-stakeholder perspectives on models of in-person and remote cochlear implant aftercare and the opportunities and challenges for change

To explore stakeholder perspectives on current adult cochlear implant services and potential integration of remote assessment tools. DESIGN AND

Cochlear implant programmes considering hybrid or fully remote aftercare models should weigh multi-stakeholder perspectives on barriers and facilitators; this study provides qualitative evidence to guide service redesign but does not prescribe a single model.

As cochlear implant recipient numbers grow and clinic capacity is strained, robust evidence on stakeholder attitudes toward remote aftercare is essential for sustainable, patient-centred service redesign.

1. 01Qualitative multi-stakeholder design captured views from CI recipients, clinicians, and service managers on aftercare models.
2. 02Both in-person and remote cochlear implant (CI) aftercare approaches were evaluated for feasibility and acceptability.
3. 03Opportunities and challenges for integrating remote assessment tools were a central focus.
4. 04Findings are directly relevant to audiology service planning and telehealth policy for CI programmes.
5. 05No quantitative outcome data on remote CI aftercare effectiveness were generated.

PMID

42400133

DOI

10.1080/14992027.2026.2683471.

Journal

International Journal of Audiology

Publication type

research_article

Evidence level

5

Population

Adults with cochlear implants, cochlear implant clinicians, and service managers

Intervention

Qualitative exploration of in-person vs. remote cochlear implant aftercare models

Comparator

In-person cochlear implant aftercare