Independent review into cochlear implants scandal gets underway

An independent review into the cochlear implant debacle at the Women’s and Children’s Hospital is finally getting underway.

An independent review into the cochlear implant program scandal at the Women’s and Children’s Hospital is now underway after it was found dozens of children had the devices incorrectly programmed, leading to fears of irreversible damage to their communication skills.

Principal Consultant Amanda Singleton will lead the external review, along with three clinical experts, all based in Victoria, all to understand how and why the mapping issues occurred.

Last year, staff at the South Australian Paediatric Cochlear Implant Program were notified of problems and began an internal review of current and former patients.

This identified that of the 117 children currently in the program, approximately 30 had potential issues with implant mapping.

Dale and Lauren Smedley and their kids Reid and Logan. Picture: Ben Clark

The internal review has been expanded to also include children who have been a part of the program as far back as 2006, are currently aged under 18, but who have since left the program — parents of such children who have not been contacted to should call

0481 483 586.

The independent review commissioned by the state government in March will look at the systems and processes that were — or were not — in place at the time; the notification and disclosure process following the discovery of the error; understanding what system changes could be implemented to stop the issue happening again; and any opportunities for clinical governance or reform.

The review team will have access to all relevant material required to review the cochlear implant program, including reviews already undertaken including remediation strategies. South Australians will have until June 30 to contribute to the external review, with the final report to be made public.

SA Health chief executive, Dr Robyn Lawrence said: “We need to learn exactly how and why this issue occurred to ensure it is not repeated in the future.

“It’s important that the families affected have their voices heard and the opportunity to contribute to this review.

“I welcome the outcome of the review and will take all recommendations seriously and into consideration moving forward.”

WCHN chief executive Lindsey Gough vowed to support the independent inquiry.

“It’s important to our health network and all of our staff that this does not occur again in the future,” she said.