Next-generation Cochlear™ Baha® sound processors

How to upgrade

Frequently asked questions

1. When should I upgrade my sound processor? 

There are many benefits to upgrading your older generation device. Advances in technology may provide you with a better hearing experience, particularly in challenging environments. You can also enjoy new features that help you connect with people face to face, online or on the phone, and enjoy your favourite activities.

Many insurance providers will help fund an upgrade after you’ve used your current device for a number of years. Also, if your current sound processor is lost or irreparably damaged, or nearing the end of its useful life, upgrading offers the opportunity to get a next-generation sound processor as your replacement device.

2. How are upgrades funded?

There are several funding pathways for upgrading processors.

• Self-funded – Privately purchase your new sound processor by credit card, direct deposit, ZipMoney**.
• Private Health Insurance - If you have an applicable private health fund policy you may be eligible to receive a replacement/upgraded sound processor fully or partially covered every 3-5 years. 
• Other Compensable Agency – You may be eligible for a funded upgrade to be considered as part of a related compensation claim, eg. Department of Veterans’ Affairs, Transport Accident Commission, Work Cover, Accident Compensation Corporation. 
• Public funding via Hearing Australia - members under 26 years of age may be eligible for a funded upgrade every 5-6 years.
• Public funding via National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) –NDIS participants may be eligible for a funded upgrade every 6 years subject to meeting prescribed eligibility criteria and determined on a case by case basis.

To understand which is the best funding pathway for you, simply submit an upgrade request on the sound processor you are most interested in, and our team will be happy to guide you through the process. Alternatively you can speak with your Health Care Professional. 

3. How to upgrade

After consulting with your Health Care Professional, choose which sound processor best suits your needs, along with colour and funding pathway and submit a 'request for information'. Our team of experts will then contact you and guide you through all your options and be with you every step of the way.

© Cochlear Limited 2021.

Please seek advice from your health professional about treatments for hearing loss. Outcomes may vary, and your health professional will advise you about the factors which could affect your outcome. Always read the instructions for use. Not all products are available in all countries. Please contact your local Cochlear representative for product information.

Prior to placing an order for a sound processor, ensure you have consulted a health professional to confirm that the sound processor is right for you and ensure you seek assistance from a health professional if you sound processor need to be adjusted.

For a full list of Cochlear’s trademarks, please visit our Terms of Use page.

* The Cochlear Baha 6 Max Sound Processor, with battery compartment excluded, is dust and water resistant to level IP68 of the International Standard IEC60529. Refer to the relevant user guide for more information. Tested by the RISE Research Institutes of Sweden AB.

** Credit services are being provided by zipMoney and subject to zipMoney’s terms and conditions. 

References

1. Van Eeckhoutte M, Folkeard P, Glista D, Scollie S. Speech recognition, loudness, and preference with extended bandwidth hearing aids for adult hearing aid users. Int J Audiol. 2020;20:1-12.

2. Hua H. Baha 6 Max Home test CIR CBAS5779. Cochlear Bone Anchored Solutions AB, Sweden. 2021; D1801512