The Cochlear Implant Consumer Advocacy Network (CI CAN) is a new initiative designed to amplify the American Cochlear Implant (ACI) Alliance’s ongoing efforts with grassroots advocacy, the organization announced.

According to ACI, CI CAN members will be able to share their personal stories directly with policymakers to guide their public policy making. The American Cochlear Implant Alliance (ACI Alliance) is a not-for-profit membership organization created with the purpose of eliminating barriers to cochlear implantation by sponsoring research, driving heightened awareness and advocating for improved access to cochlear implants for patients of all ages across the US. ACI Alliance members are clinicians, scientists, educators, and others on cochlear implant teams as well as parent and consumer advocates.

CI CAN is a new initiative designed to amplify ACI Alliance’s ongoing efforts with grassroots advocacy. Anyone who has or needs a cochlear implant or supports others may join the network, with ACI Alliance staff and volunteers providing training and guidance.

Related article: ACI Alliance Awarded Grant to Evaluate Impact of Pediatric Cochlear Implantation

Public policy that affects access to cochlear implants is a critical element of the mission of ACI Alliance. By helping policymakers understand what matters to people and to the process of providing quality clinical care, CI CAN member’s personal stories of living with significant hearing loss yourself or with a family member or friend is critical to that success.

ACI Alliance Executive Director Donna Sorkin notes: “Despite life-changing outcomes provided by cochlear implants for appropriate children and adults with hearing loss who do not benefit sufficiently from hearing aids, CI awareness and utilization in the United States lags behind that of other countries with advanced healthcare systems. Adding the voices of consumers, parents, and others can enhance and inspire our efforts to improve cochlear implant access.”

Learn More:

• ACI Alliance: www.acialliance.org

• CI CAN: www.acialliance.org/page/CI_CAN

Source: ACI Alliance