Phonak Optimizes the 'Junior Mode' for Perfect Pediatric Fitting

Leipzig, Germany, October 15, 2008 - The version 2.2 of the iPFG fitting software from Phonak provides new informative tools for parents and caregivers. The Junior Reports provide important background information for better understanding of the child's hearing loss and the use of the hearing system. The new Junior Reports are part of the Junior Fitting Mode in the iPFG software. The Junior Mode offers, with a simple mouse-click, appropriate pediatric default settings which make the fitting of hearing systems to children more precise and efficient.

As of iPFG release 2.2, the Junior Fitting Mode includes seven Junior Reports as well as additional informational materials for parents, teachers, and caregivers. As a result, hearing healthcare professionals can provide everyone involved with individualized background material regarding the child and the use of his or her hearing system. For example, the reports explain the results of the hearing test plus provide information regarding the current settings of the hearing or FM system. This information supports the optimization of the pediatric fitting and allows more time for counseling and testing. Parents and caregivers win a better understanding of their child's hearing loss and hearing system.

Overview of the new Junior Reports:

• Language, speech and hearing development:

The new reports provide parents and caregivers with guidelines and practical tips for promoting the child's speech and language development. The easy-to-read informational sheets contain instructions that are tailored to the various age groups and development stages: 0-6 months, 6-12 months, 1-2 years, 2-3 years, and 3-4 years old.

Diary: Parents and caregivers can use the diary to record and track the child's development and experiences with the hearing or FM system in a structured way making appointments with the hearing healthcare professional even more efficient.

Care and maintenance: Quick and easy instructions guide parents in the correct care for the child's hearing or FM system. The instructions also provide information regarding the earmold, a hearing system checklist, and trouble-shooting information. A separate report regarding system care and maintenance is provided specifically for teachers.

Manual for hearing loss and amplification technologies: This manual provides parents with general information regarding hearing loss, possible challenges of the particular degree of hearing loss and tips regarding the selection of suitable technology.Junior Mode - one-click fitting

In October 2007 Phonak introduced the Junior Mode of the iPFG fitting software for an efficient and accurate pediatric fitting process under consideration of the needs of the hearing healthcare professional, the child, and the child's family. This mode was based on comments from the international pediatric community and the Phonak Pediatric Advisory Board and is available for all hearing systems that can be programmed with iPFG.

The iPFG 2.2 Junior Mode release with the new Junior Reports is now available. Additional information and a demonstration of the Junior Mode are available under: www.hearingseminars.com/ipfgjuniormode

About Phonak

Headquartered near Zurich, Switzerland, Phonak has developed, produced and globally distributed state-of-the-art hearing systems and wireless devices for over 50 years. The combination of expertise in hearing technology, mastery in acoustics and strong cooperation with hearing care professionals allows Phonak to significantly improve people's hearing ability and speech understanding and therefore their quality of life.

Phonak offers a complete range of digital hearing instruments, along with complementary wireless communication systems. With 2'500 employees worldwide, Phonak drives innovation and sets new industry benchmarks regarding miniaturization and performance.

For more information about Phonak, please visit https://www.phonak.com/ or the Phonak Web Channel on Audiology Online.