UKZN Ear and Hearing Care advocates, Audiologist Dr Zandile Shezi and Otolaryngologist (Ear, nose and throat – ENT) surgeon Dr Andile Sibiya, represented KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) at the European Symposium on Paediatric Cochlear Implantation (ESPCI), the largest conference on cochlear implants for children, in Rotterdam, in June.
Shezi, a lecturer in the Discipline of Audiology and the co-ordinator for the KZN Auditory Implant Programme, delivered a presentation on research conducted by Audiology student, Ms Chenay Charles, whom she supervises with Audiology lecturer, Ms Nasim Khan at UKZN. Her talk, titled Cochlear Implantation in a Developing Country, South Africa, revealed insightful findings on the factors impacting the waiting time for cochlear implant candidates in the country.
Based on interviews with audiologists across several South African provinces, the research team identified both technical and non-technical hindrances in the implantation process. Shezi highlighted issues such as a lack of universal newborn hearing screening programmes, limited funding, economic challenges, access to technology, infrastructure, and attitudinal barriers as significant obstacles. However, she also noted the beneficial impact of cohesive and co-ordinated team decision-making, which facilitates processes and optimises cochlear implantation services. The team’s research underlines the necessity of understanding and addressing these issues to ensure the sustainability of cochlear implantation programmes.
Sibiya who heads UKZN’s Discipline of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, was invited to be part of a panel discussion on Global access to cochlear implantation for children with hearing loss. Chaired by world-renowned otologist Professor Erwin Offeciers, the panel included global experts whose work encompasses policy and strategic innovation focusing on children with special educational needs and disabilities.
‘Engaging in a dialogue with professionals of such calibre, including Brian Lamb, whose work has significantly influenced mine, was truly enriching,’ said Sibiya. ‘The insights gained on forging sustainable strategies for access to specialised care will undoubtedly catalyse innovation and pragmatic solutions tailored to African contexts.’ Her input drew on her experience in establishing an auditory implant programme in KZN.
Shezi and Sibiya’s contributions at the symposium reflect their ongoing commitment to improving access to specialised healthcare services, particularly in the field of ear and hearing care.
Words: NdabaOnline