Poplar Bluff VA medical center to begin cochlear implant programming services
FOX23 News at 9 p.m
POPLAR BLUFF, Mo., (KBSI) — Veterans with cochlear implants will soon be able to receive programming and follow-up services closer to home at the John J. Pershing VA Medical Center.
The medical center announced it has been certified as a cochlear implant programming center and plans to begin offering the service June 17.
Previously, Veterans who needed cochlear implant programming or maintenance often had to travel to facilities in St. Louis, Springfield, Little Rock or Memphis.
Audiologist Dr. Riley Rickman said the new service will reduce travel burdens and make cochlear implants a more practical option for Veterans with severe hearing loss.
Under the new program, Veterans can complete cochlear implant evaluations, device programming, testing and follow-up appointments at the Poplar Bluff facility. Cochlear implant surgeries will continue to be performed at the John Cochran VA Medical Center in St. Louis.
Medical center officials said advances in cochlear implant technology have expanded eligibility for the devices, allowing more people with moderate to profound hearing loss to benefit from the treatment.
The facility expects the service to improve access to hearing care and enhance quality of life for Veterans throughout southeast Missouri and surrounding areas.
For more information about audiology services at the John J. Pershing VA Medical Center, call 573-686-4151.
