2009 Kerrin Rennie Award winner
Media Release
24 September 2009
Cochlear winning industry award
A Cochlear hearing device has won the 2009 Kerrin Rennie Award for Excellence in Medical Technology. The award was presented to Cochlear last night at the Medical Technology Association of Australia (MTAA) award dinner at Star City in Sydney.
The Cochlear Hybrid System is based on the cochlear implant and restores hearing to patients with high frequency hearing loss, who are not suitable for cochlear implants or hearing aids. The technology uses a combination of electric and acoustic signals to the brain to restore full hearing capacity.
In congratulating the winner, Anne Trimmer, MTAA CEO, said: "Cochlear has been a fantastic story of an innovative Australian medical technology company achieving great success. The new cochlear hybrid system is a continuation of the cochlear implant technology that is designed to benefit the patient."
The Kerrin Rennie Award for Excellence in Medical Technology - Improving Quality of Life recognises the innovative and extraordinary contribution of medical technology in improving health outcomes of Australian patients.
The award dinner was held as part of a two day conference on medical technology from Wednesday 23 - Thursday 24 September at Star City in Sydney. Companies could enter products used in the diagnosis, prevention, treatment or management of disease and disability in Australia. Entries were judged by an independent panel.
The other finalists were:
Melody Transcatheter Valve Therapy - Medtronic
The technology replaces a faulty heart valve without the need for open heart surgery. The valve is fitted to the heart through the use of a catheter. The technology is used in patients with congenital, defective, pulmonic valves requiring treatment early in life.
SIMsystem - Simavita
The technology is a remote monitoring device for urinary incontinence mainly for residents in aged care homes. It uses a combination of signals to alert a nurse or carer to incontinence. Early detection can prevent urinary tract infections and other related conditions for the patient.
The Medical Technology Association of Australia (MTAA) is the national association representing companies in the medical technology industry. MTAA aims to ensure the benefits of modern, innovative and reliable medical technology are delivered to the community for a healthier Australia.
To arrange media interviews including patient story, medical practitioner and/or Cochlear company representative, please contact Marion Demann (MTAA media contact) 0416 625 678
