KAMPALA, Uganda — C-Care IHK has introduced a mandatory newborn hearing screening program to detect hearing loss early in life.
The program is part of the hospital’s expanding audiology services, which also include cochlear implant surgeries. From March 21-23, 2025, C-Care IHK will conduct cochlear implant surgeries, offering renewed hope to Ugandans with severe hearing loss.
“We have introduced mandatory newborn screening for hearing, ensuring that any challenges are detected early, and solutions can be implemented promptly,” said Dr. Miriam Mutero Musinga, General Manager of C-Care IHK.
The hospital’s efforts to address hearing loss are critical, given that an estimated 1.2 million people in Uganda suffer from hearing impairment. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that over 80% of the world’s hearing-impaired individuals live in developing countries like Uganda.
Dr. Mutero emphasized the significance of providing cochlear implant surgeries locally. “This surgery is a door to future opportunities for Ugandans to access health services locally, which were previously only available abroad at a much higher cost.”
The procedure, ranging from $13,000 to $16,000 at C-Care IHK, is considerably more affordable than overseas treatment. The hospital recently launched an audiology center offering comprehensive hearing tests and basic hearing devices.
Dr. Mutero also announced plans to expand audiology services across the C-Care network, starting with the new Mbale hospital. The hospital has successfully performed 45 cochlear implant surgeries to date and will conduct three more this weekend, bringing the total to 48.
Mr. Nathan Nanjaya, Country Representative of Medel, demonstrated the cochlear implant technology, explaining how it bypasses damaged ear components to directly stimulate the auditory nerve. “With this technology, these children can lead normal lives, attend school, and eventually become contributing members of society.”
The impact of these implants is vividly illustrated by the experience of six-year-old Maria, who regained her hearing through the procedure. “For years, I prayed for a miracle. Now, I can call my daughter’s name, and she turns to me,” said Maria’s mother, Esther.
The hospital is conducting a Cochlear Implant Awareness Campaign throughout March, offering free hearing tests and preparing for the upcoming surgeries. Dr. Sedrack Matsiko, an ENT surgeon, highlighted the broader impact of restoring hearing.
“Individuals with hearing loss will not be able to participate in social interaction, learn, and this has related social and economic impacts. These cochlear implants are therefore crucial to correct hearing defects.”
Dr. Christopher Ndoleriire, an ENT surgeon and lecturer at Makerere University’s School of Medicine, stressed the importance of public education and regular screenings. “Our goal is to educate the public about the importance of hearing health, the need for regular screenings, and the available treatment options.”
Dr. Thomas Rasse, a visiting ENT surgeon from Austria, discussed the technical aspects of the implants and the importance of post-operative care. “Among the three companies worldwide that produce such implants, only our company, Medel, offers customized electrode lengths tailored to each patient’s unique cochlear size.”
He also emphasized the importance of follow-up care and rehabilitation for optimal outcomes. “It’s essential to have regular follow-up appointments with an audiologist, who will guide parents and patients on how to optimize the processor settings and develop effective training strategies.”
The launch of the newborn hearing screening program and the upcoming cochlear implant surgeries mark a significant step forward in addressing hearing loss in Uganda.
