The role of perceived competence in remote cochlear implant aftercare: a mixed-methods study

Remote care and digital health tools are increasingly incorporated into cochlear implant aftercare to enhance accessibility and patient engagement. Their uptake, however, depends strongly on perceived competence, digital health literacy, and motivational factors among patients with cochlear implants (CI).

This exploratory sequential mixed-methods study investigated motivational mechanisms and digital readiness among patients with cochlear implants (PwCI). In the qualitative phase, three semi-structured group interviews (n = 9) explored motivational drivers, barriers, and acceptance conditions. In the quantitative phase, 62 PwCI completed standardized instruments assessing affinity for technology, digital health literacy, and motivation for technology adoption.

Qualitative findings highlighted autonomy-related benefits such as flexibility and time savings, alongside competence-related concerns including technical uncertainty and the need for professional reassurance. Quantitative analyses showed moderate to high levels of digital health literacy and technology affinity, with perceived competence strongly associated with self-determined motivation and related engagement intentions. Technology affinity emerged as the strongest predictor of perceived competence.

Engagement with remote CI aftercare appears to depend less on technical availability alone than on perceived competence and motivational factors, underscoring the importance of competence-supportive design and hybrid care models in digital aftercare implementation.