Online support group users’ perceptions and experiences of bone-anchored hearing aids (BAHAs): a qualitative study

Abstract

Objective: Better understanding of the decision-making process for bone-anchored hearing aid (BAHA) candidates has been identified by clinicians as a research priority. This study aimed to understand experiences and perceptions of BAHA candidates and users who use online support groups.Design: One thousand posts retrieved from a public UK-based online support group were thematically analysed.Study sample: Messages were posted by 270 BAHA users and candidates.Results: Individuals used the online group to obtain information about BAHAs and support for decision-making regarding accepting BAHA surgery and wearing a percutaneous device. BAHA users evaluated the efficacy of the system, perceiving it to be highly effective in improving their hearing. The BAHA influenced individuals’ self-image and impacted their social lives. Fears of surgery and post-implantation infections were regarded as challenges to be faced when choosing to accept implantation.Conclusions: BAHA candidates found the online support group useful in helping them to decide whether or not to proceed with surgery, and the personal experiences of BAHA users were predominantly positive. However, it is not clear to what extent such positive experiences are representative of BAHA users more generally, and candidates need to be aware of this when using these groups to support decision-making.