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Hearing device - Advanced level

Line Item Description

This support item is categorized under Assistive Technology (AT) within the NDIS and covers the provision of an Advanced Level Hearing Device.

Device Function and Target Group:

The "Advanced Level" classification represents the highest tier of hearing technology, designed for NDIS participants who are highly active and frequently encounter complex, noisy, and dynamic acoustic environments (e.g., large professional meetings, busy public transport, crowded restaurants, or active community settings). These participants require superior hearing performance to maximise their participation in mainstream life.

Key Features and Impact:

Superior Environmental Adaptation: Advanced devices feature the most sophisticated digital signal processing. This includes premium noise reduction, advanced speech enhancement algorithms, and precise directionality systems (e.g., binaural processing) that work together to isolate speech from noise, even in highly challenging environments.

Automaticity and Customisation: They offer a high degree of automation, allowing the device to seamlessly and quickly adjust to rapid changes in the acoustic landscape without requiring manual user intervention. They also offer greater customization options to suit highly unique or challenging hearing profiles.

Full Connectivity Suite: Typically includes the most comprehensive and reliable connectivity options (e.g., direct streaming to various devices, telecoil, remote microphone compatibility) essential for integrating communication across all aspects of life.

Maximum Participation: This level of technology is prescribed when less sophisticated devices would demonstrably limit the participant's ability to achieve their significant NDIS goals related to employment, higher education, or intensive community and social participation.

The provision of an Advanced Level Hearing Device is based on clear clinical justification, demonstrating that the complex features are necessary to meet the participant's functional requirements in their daily environment. The device must be assessed, fitted, and programmed by an appropriately qualified professional.