Cochlear Implant Processor Replacement Program

The Saskatchewan Cochlear Implant Processor Replacement Program provides children and adults with assistance toward the cost of external sound processor replacement. This program is a co-pay model. The client co-pay is $840 per processor. This provincial program is intended for individuals who do not have coverage through other programs. The typical replacement timeframe is once every five to seven years, or the lifespan of the sound processor. The program is administered by the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) under the direction of the Ministry of Health.

Eligibility Criteria

Program implementation date is December 1, 2022. 

The SHA administers this cost-shared replacement service. Clients must have a valid Saskatchewan Health card. the following eligibility criteria will determine how clients are prioritized for replacement:

• Sound processors must be provided through the SHA.
• Client must meet clinical indicators for a sound processor replacement. Clients will be assessed based on greatest need. Clients with no sound would be considered priority.
• The current sound processor is within the typical five to seven year replacement timeframe.
• The current sound processor has been deemed obsolete by the manufacturer.

Exclusion Criteria

• The release of new technology or a client seeking the newest technology when their sound processor is functional; and
• Implants other than for a cochlear implant.

Cochlear Implant Sound Processor Replacement Frequently Asked Questions

Am I eligible for a cochlear implant sound processor replacement?

Saskatchewan adults and children with a valid Saskatchewan health card are eligible for this program. The SHA determines when an individual is eligible for a replacement. Clients will be prioritized by the greatest need and be contacted by SHA when they are eligible.

The following criteria will determine how clients are prioritized for a sound processor replacement:

• Client must meet clinical indicators for a sound processor replacement. Clients with no sound would be considered a priority. Other clinical indicators to be assessed according to greatest need.
• The current sound processor is within the typical 5-7 year replacement timeframe.
• The current sound processor has been deemed obsolete by the manufacturer.

I have recently purchased a new sound processor for my cochlear implant, can I get reimbursed?

Program implementation date was Dec 1, 2022. Individuals who have replaced their processor between October 13, 2022 and December 1, 2022 may be eligible for a refund. Please contact your clinician to determine eligibility.

Are there any costs involved for me?

The cochlear sound processor replacement program is a co-payment model where the client pays $840 per processor.

What if I cannot afford the co-pay?

If affordability of the co-payment is a challenge, clients may be able to seek assistance through other insurances such as workplace benefits or through charitable organizations. If a client knows that a third party is to be billed for their co-payment, clients will be required to inform the SHA including how and where to send the co-payment invoice. 

Do I need to trade in my current sound processor?

Yes, clients will be required to trade-in their current sound processor. If the client does not have or want to trade-in their current processor, they will be required to pay the additional cost normally covered by the manufacturers trade-in rebate. 

**An exception will be in place for the initial program roll out in the 22/23 funding year for those clients whose devices are obsolete and not eligible for the rebate program.

What if my processor is damaged and needs repair?

Please contact your clinician to discuss options.

What if repairs are not covered under warranty?

Please contact your clinician to discuss options.

Am I eligible if I need a new sound processor for my bone conduction hearing device?

Only cochlear implant sound processors are eligible for the funding.

Does a new model release of a sound processor make me eligible for an upgrade?

The release of new technology or a client seeking the newest technology is not a criteria for replacement.

Do I get to pick the sound processor I want to upgrade to?

Eligible clients will receive a replacement sound processor that meets their specific needs and is compatible with their internal device.