§ Mr. SimsTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Services what is the average cost of a cochlea implant; how many such operations have been performed under the National Health Service in the most recent 12-month period; what steps have been taken to evaluate the effectiveness of the operation; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mrs. CurrieImplantation of cochlea stimulation devices is undertaken at University College hospital, London, from non-National Health Service funds and with support from the National Institute of the Deaf. There are also research programmes at other National Health Service hospitals. Cochlea implants are still at a research and development stage and it is for health authorities to decide whether and when to make them generally available, taking into account medical advice as to benefits for patients and results of research and evaluation. Cost estimates vary according to the type of device from about £6,000 to £10,000 per patient.