Cochlear implants can restore hearing and dramatically improve quality of life, but costs in Pakistan vary widely. Private surgeries can reach PKR 3.5 million (~$12,000 USD), while full packages including rehabilitation may total $25,000 USD. Public-private initiatives aim to make these life-changing procedures accessible to underprivileged patients.
Private Costs
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Private Hospitals: Around PKR 3.5 million for surgery and device.
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Complete Package: Including rehabilitation, therapy, and follow-ups, may reach $25,000 USD.
Subsidized & Free Options
Several government programs and hospital initiatives reduce or fully cover costs:
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Sehat Card (KP Province): Free cochlear implants for eligible children at designated hospitals like Hayatabad Medical Complex.
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Mukhtar A. Sheikh Hospital: Surgeries funded for underprivileged children, costing around PKR 2 million.
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IMRA Medical Society: Partners with PIMS Hospital to offer free surgeries funded through donations.
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CM Punjab Transplant Programme: Free surgeries at institutions such as University of Lahore Teaching Hospital (ULTH).
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SGTH Swat: Subsidized implants (around PKR 200,000) via partnerships with Bait ul Mal and Zakat departments.
Key Factors Affecting Costs
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Device vs. Package: The implant itself is costly; rehabilitation and follow-ups significantly add to the total.
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Eligibility: Age (commonly under 5) and financial need determine access to free or subsidized programs.
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Location: Costs and assistance vary by province and hospital.
Conclusion
Thanks to government schemes and hospital initiatives, cochlear implants are becoming more accessible in Pakistan, ensuring children from all backgrounds can receive life-changing hearing restoration.
