We are writing in response to the article “Medical Aid changes spark online petition” regarding the fact that Discovery has decided to change (more specifically drop) allied healthcare benefits.

The article states that “unlimited cover for allied healthcare is available only to members with a serious ongoing condition, like cerebral palsy”. We would like to argue that infants and children with a hearing loss be included in the unlimited cover of the proposed “extended benefit” plan.

The justification is clear: research shows that hearing loss (in one ear or two, mild or profound) impacts on the language and communication development of the child.

This, in turn, impacts on the development of relationships, cognitive development and the scholastic development that follows.

Hearing loss is irreversible and whatever amplification the family choose, either hearing aids or the hi-tech cochlear implants, these infants need frequent visits to audiologists, speech therapists and, where their challenges require it, also physiotherapists and/or occupational therapists.

As they grow older and solid foundations are established for language, communication and aural rehabilitation, the frequencies of these therapies will decrease, though never stop.

Even in adulthood, persons with hearing loss need to visit an audiologist and at times may choose to visit a speech therapist.

It is thus clear that infants and children with hearing loss should be recognised for the “serious ongoing” effect that hearing loss has on their overall development. This will then allow them access to the necessary ongoing therapies required for them to grow up with equal access to language, information and education.

Limiting benefits will have a far-reaching (and expensive) impact on these children.

We will follow this debate with interest and trust that Discovery will do sufficient research into various medical and physical challenges that need to be added to the “serious ongoing condition” list.

Saving costs in the short-term can and will have long- term financial and human costs if decisions are taken lightly.

Dr Claudine Storbeck

Director: HI HOPES – The home-based early intervention programme that supports families of infants with hearing loss, at no cost to the families

Wits University

Joburg