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Robotic Cochlear Implantation for Direct Cochlear Access
Published on: June 16, 2022
What stops audiologists using remote care tools to care for adults with cochlear implants?
H E Cullington1, S Sardar Sheriff2,3
1University of Southampton Auditory Implant Service, Southampton, UK.
Cochlear Implants International
|June 8, 2026
Summary
Audiologists face technical issues and prefer in-person care, hindering telemedicine adoption in adult cochlear implant services. Improving technology and integration could overcome these barriers for better remote care.
Area of Science:
- Audiology
- Telemedicine
- Cochlear Implants
Background:
- Telemedicine adoption in audiology, particularly for adult cochlear implant care, presents unique challenges.
- Understanding audiologist perspectives is crucial for effective implementation of remote care strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- Identify barriers faced by audiologists in adopting telemedicine for adult cochlear implant care.
- Determine necessary improvements to facilitate the integration of telemedicine in this specialized field.
Main Methods:
- A prospective, mixed-methods online survey was conducted with cochlear implant audiologists in the United Kingdom.
- The survey collected data on the usage, perceived effectiveness, and barriers related to remote care tools.
Main Results:
- 87% of respondents had used remote care tools, but only 29% used them regularly; none used them daily.
- Frequent technical issues (68%) and the perception of in-person care as the gold standard (81%) were significant barriers.
- Improvements in manufacturer tools and system integration were identified as key to overcoming challenges.
Conclusions:
- Technical difficulties and the established preference for in-person care are primary obstacles to telemedicine adoption in adult cochlear implant audiology.
- Enhancing the user experience of telemedicine, making it seamless and integrated, may shift perceptions regarding the gold standard of care.