In this week’s post, we’ve collected some of the direct inquiries received from wearers and parents/caregivers to wearers over the past year. We hope some of our responses answer questions you might also have about Oticon Medical and our Ponto™ bone anchored hearing devices. However, if you have a question about our products and services, please feel free to post it in the Comments and we’ll be happy to get you the answers you need!
Questions on Ponto bone anchored hearing devices
Q: Hi! I have hearing loss on the left side, but my right is slowly catching up. I am in the process of getting a Ponto 4 for my left side but am wondering about the right side in the future. Would the Ponto 4 work as a bilateral hearing aid device (as in: could I have a Ponto implant on either side of my head?)
A: You can absolutely use Ponto 4 as a bilateral fitting — we have several wearers who wear one on either side.
Q: What is the life of a bone anchored hearing system?
A: The Ponto “lifespan” differs depending on several factors — the model, the care taken of it by the user, etc., so we can’t really provide a set answer. However, I think it’s safe to say that the average time a user keeps their Ponto is 3-5 years before they decide to upgrade to a newer model.
Q: My son got his new device yesterday. My family is so worried about the looks of the band and him getting bullied at school.
A: If you are concerned about bullying, we suggest you and your son meet with his primary teacher and arrange for him to explain what his device is to the class. We have had other parents give little presentations on their Pontos, and when the other kids learn how cool the technology is, they are more likely to be impressed and less likely to tease. We would even be happy to send you materials to give out if you’d like to make it a slightly more “official” session. Feel free to think it over and let us know.
Q: Does hair dye hurt the implant?
A: Hair dye will not hurt the implant. However, you might want to give the abutment a wipe just to remove any possible discoloration.
Q: What is the fitting range of a Ponto 4 for conductive mixed hearing loss?
A: The fitting range is up to and including an average of 45 decibels (dB) hearing loss.
Questions on Ponto accessories and compatibility
Q: Can the Ponto 4 connect to Roger™ devices — Roger Pen or Roger MyLink? If not, what DM systems are compatible? Thanks!
A: The Ponto 4 is now compatible with FM systems and Roger devices through use of the Oticon EduMic™, which is compatible with regular air-conduction Oticon hearing aids and Ponto 4. Alternately, the Ponto 4 also comes with a ConnectClip™ accessory that allows for direct audio streaming from the teacher’s mic into the student’s Ponto bone anchored device. You can read more about it through this link: https://www.oticonmedical.com/us/bone-conduction/solutions/accessories.
Q: How do I go about getting more batteries for my child’s Pontos?
A: You have a few choices for batteries. You might be able to find hearing aid batteries that fit from a local pharmacy or grocery store if you know the size you need, and they are in stock. You can also get them from the clinic or audiology professional from whom you got the Pontos, or you can order them from us directly by calling Customer Service at 1-888-277-8014 (M-F 8:00am – 7:00pm EST) or by email at [email protected].
Questions on insurance coverage and upgrades
Q: My insurance denied my request for coverage and I’m appealing. Can you sell Ponto 4 to me directly?
A: We’re sorry you’re struggling with the insurance company. Yes, we can sell our devices to you directly. If you need any assistance with your appeal, please let us know and our Reimbursement Support Team can help you out with that as well. Please feel free to contact them at [email protected] or call 1-855-400-9761.
Q: I have the Ponto Plus Power and would like to know how I can get an upgrade? Would Medicare cover it?
A: Oticon Medical is an accredited Durable Medical Equipment (DME) provider for Medicare. If you qualify for the proper Medicare coverage, Oticon Medical can bill Medicare directly on your behalf. Please contact one of our Reimbursement Support Specialists for further details regarding Medicare and Ponto processor replacements.
Ready to get your first Ponto device? Click here to find a clinic near you!
Have an older model processor? Click here to upgrade your Ponto!