Abstract
This contribution compares a currently worn hearing instrument (i.e. R-HI) with a programmable multiband full-dynamic range compression behind-the-eaf HI (i.e. T-HI). based on subject preference for HI, and, in addition, compares the preference for a linear/non-linear amplification-mode (i.e. L-mode/C-mode). Finally, it evaluates some health technology aspects related to the devices. N – 34 experienced HI-users at a median age of 72 years (range 22–84) completed the trial, HI – 5 being monaurally, and n – 29 being binaurally fitted. The trial comprises an unblinded comparative study of the R-HI and T-HI, in either C-mode or I.-mode amplification, and a double-blind crossover study evaluating the C-mode versus the L-mode amplification. The results of the unblinded study showed that 94% (n – 32/34) preferred the T-HI, whereas two subjects preferred their current HI. The double-blind crossover study concerning the preference for the C-mode and L-mode, respectively, in the T-HI, showed that 72% (n – 23/32) had a significant preference for the non-linear amplification, whereas 28% (n - 9/32) preferred the linear amplification. Provided that the price of the T-HI is kept unchanged, a health technology evaluation may imply an estimate of 30 mill. DKR added costs on a national basis, which should be taken into account within the national hearing services.