The European Federation of Hard of Hearing People (EFHOH) is pleased to launch its third edition of State of Hearing Aids and Cochlear Implants Provision in Europe, examining access to hearing aids and cochlear implants across 26 European countries.
Building on EFHOH’s previous assessments in 2018 and 2022, the 2026 edition expands its scope to include cochlear implants and personal assistive listening devices, covering public funding, eligibility criteria, costs to users, waiting times, rehabilitation and long-term support.
The findings reveal persistent and concerning gaps in access to hearing care. These inequalities have real consequences for people with hearing loss, creating barriers to communication, education, employment and independent living. Access to hearing care is a matter of human rights and equal participation in society.
EFHOH calls on the European Union to develop an ambitious European Strategy on Hearing Loss, and on European countries to integrate person-centred ear and hearing care into universal health coverage. This must include affordable hearing technologies, professional support, rehabilitation and timely repair and replacement throughout life.
The new EU enhanced Disability Strategy’s flagship on assistive technologies offers an important opportunity to turn these commitments into concrete action.
Investing in hearing care means investing in equality, independence and full participation in society.
Read the full report to explore the findings and recommendations.
