Safety of Bluetooth Streaming on Pacemaker/ICD Users?

Hi

I just got fitted with my new Moxi 12 aids, they came with a U/Direct and U/TV (Rebranded Phonak ICom) for bluetooth streaming and watching TV (I had an ICD (pacemaker/defibrillator in 2005).

The manufacturer recommends Not using these products if you have an implanted pacemaker or defibrillator.
I have done a fair amount of research on the web, including the FCC site and from what I can ascertain as long as these devices are not in direct contact (within 1.5 inches) of the medical device they should not present a problem.

Does anyone on the forum use a similar streaming device and what is the general concensus on the relative safety?

I pondered the same question after being fitted with a Phonak BiCros system. Both the pacemaker and neckloop manufacturers warned against using the devices together. Even though I felt certain that the manufacturers were being ultraconservative, probably on the advice of their legal departments, I decided try a different solution. I have enough health problems without potentially adding more of my own making. I bought a FM transmitter/receiver pair and an earbud and use them to watch TV without the aids. Works well for me with my type of hearing loss. There are certainly other solutions out there other than bluetooth neckloops, although I can understand your desire to use the neckloop you already have. Vic

You are safe to use the streamer as you mention. By the way, your mobile phone is more of a danger to your health.

I pondered the same question after being fitted with a Phonak BiCros system. Both the pacemaker and neckloop manufacturers warned against using the devices together. Even though I felt certain that the manufacturers were being ultraconservative, probably on the advice of their legal departments, I decided try a different solution. I have enough health problems without potentially adding more of my own making. I bought a FM transmitter/receiver pair and an earbud and use them to watch TV without the aids. Works well for me with my type of hearing loss. There are certainly other solutions out there other than bluetooth neckloops, although I can understand your desire to use the neckloop you already have. Vic

Thanks for the response Vic, I think you are correct about the caution coming from the mfrs legal dept and primarily being a “CYA” strategy.
I do completely understand your logic for not taking a chance though.

For TV watching I do have a pair of Sennheiser 170 wireless headphones which work great, but still would like the bluetooth flexibility.

You are safe to use the streamer as you mention. By the way, your mobile phone is more of a danger to your health.

From what I’ve been reading, that’s kinda the impression that I’ve been getting, also some concern as to what the long term effects of RF waves from the expanding use of Wifi etc may be.

Now before I hang the neckloop on, may I ask what you are basing your advice on…what you’ve read or do you actually have clients that are using them…just want to quell my concerns before using the devices.

Thanks for the replies.