E-mailing access office

[e050377]

Hello-

 

My son uses cochlear implants to hear and is unable to go through a metal detector. He must be hand searched. We've cruised before on HAL and RCCL, and we've not had a problem. I just called up, explained the situation, they made a note, and we were all set.

 

I called Princess's access office yesterday and was directed to e-mail my request to them. I have done so and was wondering how long it usually takes to get a response. We are not sailing until July, so I have time and I know the process could take awhile, I just want to be sure everything is set before we go!

[Coral]

I emailed them last week and heard back this week. It is usually pretty quick/reasonable time frame.

[77Network]

Hello-

 

My son uses cochlear implants to hear and is unable to go through a metal detector. He must be hand searched. We've cruised before on HAL and RCCL, and we've not had a problem. I just called up, explained the situation, they made a note, and we were all set.

 

I called Princess's access office yesterday and was directed to e-mail my request to them. I have done so and was wondering how long it usually takes to get a response. We are not sailing until July, so I have time and I know the process could take awhile, I just want to be sure everything is set before we go!

 

There is nothing you can do ahead of time. I am sure the agent wanted to be polite and made a note in your profile for you, but the guys running the metal detectors are not looking at your account as you approach the machine. When you get there, just tell the person what the deal is and they will figure it out.

This is quite common. Cruise ships have a lot of customers with disabilities. They will be able to help you with whatever the problem is when it happens. You are going to spend a lot time calling agents and sending emails, however when you get there the guy is just going to do whatever the standard procedure is for people who can't pass through the machine.

 

I don't know what cochlear implants are. Does the metal detector damage them? If it does not then just walk through the thing and see what happens. You may be able to avoid the hand search.

[e050377]

That's great to know they get back fairly quick. If I haven't heard anything in a couple of weeks I'll follow up.

 

I would be surprised if security did not already know about our situation when we board, as on HAL the security person actually told us they were expecting us and asked what cochlear implants were and on RCCL we were actually escorted to security to be sure all went smoothly. I have no problem handling it, but it is a lot easier when they know ahead of time!

 

I can't really just let him walk through the metal detector with his implants on, as there is the potential to wipe out their programming and then he would not be able to hear until we could find an audiologist to reprogram them.

[77Network]

That's great to know they get back fairly quick. If I haven't heard anything in a couple of weeks I'll follow up.

 

I would be surprised if security did not already know about our situation when we board, as on HAL the security person actually told us they were expecting us and asked what cochlear implants were and on RCCL we were actually escorted to security to be sure all went smoothly. I have no problem handling it, but it is a lot easier when they know ahead of time!

 

I can't really just let him walk through the metal detector with his implants on, as there is the potential to wipe out their programming and then he would not be able to hear until we could find an audiologist to reprogram them.

 

 

So anyway I was interested in learning more and found this information on Advanced Bionics’ website.

 

No. Metal detectors and security scanners will not damage the implant or sound processor. However, individuals with a cochlear implant passing through security metal detectors may activate the detector alarm. It is advised that patients carry their “Patient Emergency Identification Card” with them at all times. Cochlear implant users also might hear a distorted sound caused by the magnetic field around the security scanner door or hand-held scanning wand. Turning off the sound processor before passing through security screening will ensure that those sounds, if they occur, are not too loud or uncomfortable. The cochlear implant user may request a full body pat-down and visual and physical inspection of the sound processor in place of the standard metal detector and x-ray procedure.

 

This is from Cochlear’s website.

 

“What will happen to my speech processor when I walk through airport security metal detectors?

Usually, nothing will happen. If your processor is set on the telecoil “T” setting, you may hear some buzzing as you walk through. This is harmless electromagnetic interference. It’s smart to leave your processor turned on when you walk through, just in case the security guard needs to speak to you.”

 

Here’s an excerpt from Med-el’s website.

 

The function of your implant will not be affected by metal detectors or screeners. However, because the implant contains some parts that may be detected, MED-EL will provide you with a special ID card to use at security checkpoints.

 

Are yours made by any of these companies?

 

Keep in mind that this is the same cruise line that forgets your request for a mattress topper or robe 50% of the time. In any event, don't worry about it. If they do know about it ahead of time that is great. If they don't then just tell them and they will do whatever needs to be done quickly and discreetly. Just don't spend a lot of time getting worked up over it.

[e050377]

Wow, thanks for looking all of this up! Did you learn anything new? We are always amazed by the technology.

 

His are from Advanced Bionics. I know they will not damage the actual processor, but we have had his program wiped out going through airport security. Luckily we were near an audiologist that fit us right in to re-program. It could have been a disaster for him, as he loves hearing now that he is able!

 

I will definitely remember to bring the note from our audiologist and be prepared to let them know myself at security.

 

Thanks again!