| Autor: |
Backous, D., Wright, J., Grolley, E., Souza, N., Scoones, M. |
| Předmět: |
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| Zdroj: |
Journal of Hearing Science; 2018, Vol. 8 Issue 2, p65-65, 1/3p |
| Abstrakt: |
Objective: To determine whether distributing assessment and programming to community audiologists would improve access for cochlear implants with equivalent outcomes and patient experience measurements. Materials/Methods: In 2002, we started the Alaska CI Network to extend care to patients without the need for repetitive travel to Seattle (4 hours by plane). ACIN, with over 250 patients implanted, activates 25 new patients per year. In 2015, using the principles of ACIN, The Puget Sound CI Network (PSCIN) was founded. Community- based audiologists determine candidacy then refer to an experienced CI surgeon for implantation. Programming and long-term care returns to the regional audiologist. Patients journey to Seattle only for surgery. Working with industry input and automated CI programming tools, local audiology centres assumed the CI care spectrum progressively at a pace consistent with their confidence level. They together developed standard protocols for pre and post-implant assessment and programming. Network members meet monthly by on-line video-conferencing to discuss difficult cases. Tele-medicine and internet- based support is available as needed in difficult cases. Standard quality metrics and patient satisfaction data have been compared to other industry data. Results: Clinical outcomes mirror those at our tertiary CI centre while patient experience is superior in the local settings. Patients cite easy access to their local audiologist and less travel as the main drivers of their increased satisfaction. With this shared-risk model for the cost of care each regional centre remains viable. Increased numbers of patients are now being implanted in the geographic regions with satellite programs in place. Conclusion: We believe this model further extends CI care to local communities and has the potential to increase market penetration in other parts of the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
| Databáze: |
Complementary Index |
| Externí odkaz: |
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