Comparing Patient and Provider Opinions and Experiences with Post-Cochlear Implant Auditory Training

Objective: To compare patient and provider experiences and opinions regarding auditory training in adult cochlear implant (CI) recipients. Study Design: Narrative review and comparison of patient and provider surveys. Setting: Tertiary referral center and email distribution list of the American Cochlear Implant Alliance. Participants: CI recipients and care providers. Interventions/Methods: We examined and performed a narrative review of two independently developed and published surveys looking at auditory training practices and habits from the perspectives of CI recipients and CI providers, respectively. Main Outcome Measure: Comparison of overlapping topics between patient and provider reports on their experiences with respect to auditory training for CI recipients. Results: Topics for comparison included how auditory training was performed, the timing or logistics of training, and barriers to utilization of training. Findings revealed that auditory training is considered a valuable resource by both CI patients and providers, with similar reports from the 2 groups on the use, timing, and perceived benefits of auditory training. However, we also noted discrepancies between patients and providers with regard to the use of specific types of training and concerns regarding reimbursement for auditory training services. Conclusion: Both CI patients and providers consider auditory training a useful and affordable resource to maximize CI outcomes. However, utilization remains inconsistent. Further study and effort are needed to address key knowledge gaps and better standardize this aspect of peri-CI care.