Overall Costs
An organ transplant is no minor surgery. A person who needs a transplant usually has to get on a waiting list and wait for someone, living or dead, to donate that needed organ. But even after an organ is found and a transplant is made, the costs incurred can seem insurmountable.
Medical Fees
The basic medical needs for a transplant can cost money. An insurance plan's deductibles are usually the first line of billing, followed by co-pays, if the transplant is covered by insurance. There may also be costs attached to pre-surgery evaluations, surgeons' fees and rehabilitation fees.
Pay Per Organ
The cost of a transplant is also defendant on what organ is being transplanted. As of 2007, the average price of a kidney-only transplant was $246,000 in the first year. A single lung transplant totaled $399,000. A heart transplant patient's first-year costs were $658,000. These are the total medical costs.
Procedure Fees
The procedure itself can rack up dollars too. Some surgeons have fees attached to their work. It isn't uncommon for anesthesiologists, radiologists and surgeons to charge extra. Some X-rays require separate fees. Organ transplants do not always agree with the body, so anti-rejection shots must sometimes be given. These alone can cost over $2,500. If complications arise from the transplant surgery, hospital stay fees can add up per day of stay.
Non-Medical Cost
Long-distance calls to loved ones and well-wishers can add up. If the surgery has to take place outside of your home city, gas fare for your transportation, as well as your family's daily transportation may add up. If it is out of driving distance, you could incur costs for air fare, additional luggage, hotel pricing and meals. Family members who must take unpaid leave will also see smaller paychecks. Child care, if needed, may require funding. Although transplants carry a hefty price tag, all hope is not lost. There are many non-profits that help raise money for these types of surgeries. They will often help cover non-medical costs and can dramatically reduce the out-of-pocket expenses. Check with these organizations for additional resources before deciding whether or not to have an organ transplant.
Tags: fees Organ, needs transplant, organ transplant