Cochlear implants are not covered by health insurance and only 20 per cent of patients can find the money. Dr Amanda Kvalsvig, an epidemiologist working on the country’s Covid-19 response, said, having waited for a cochlear implant herself, she was excited for those on the waiting list. JOHN KIRK-ANDERSON/STUFF “Access to communication is not a nice-to-have. It’s essential for wellbeing," Kvalsvig said. “I don’t think many people understand the impact of losing your hearing on your sense of belonging, your sense of purpose, even your sense of identity. “It’s not just interactions with strangers of course – it’s your own family. I had no idea what my children’s voices sounded like.”