What is Med-El?:
Med-El is a manufacturer of cochlear implants that was founded in 1989, although development of the Med-El cochlear implant had begun in 1975. Today's headquarters in Innsbruck, Austria. (The United States office is based in Durham, North Carolina).
Med-El Product Information:
Med-El makes multiple implant models, plus accessories. The Med-El website also has information on products for professionals working with implantees, such as diagnostic tools and fitting software.
Med-El Support for Implantees:
Med-El runs a support network, "Hearing Companions," which puts CI candidates in contact with people who have received Med-El implants.
Med-El Website Highlights:
In addition to basic information on the cochlear implant and hearing loss, there is a kids' corner with a cartoon story and a coloring book. There is a calendar of audiology-related events (not support group meetings), and presentations from past conferences can be downloaded. There is a downloadable PDF bibliography covering topics such as assessment of implant candidates, the surgery, programming, likely outcomes, and bilateral implantation. Finally, there is a "Find a Clinic" database.
