How Much Does Kidney Transplant Cost in India?

Overview

The cost of a kidney transplant is a significant concern for several patients. However, undergoing the procedure does not necessarily have to break the bank. With a blend of top-notch medical expertise and budget-friendly options, India offers hope for patients worldwide.

Wondering how much will it cost to undergo a kidney transplant in India? You are at the right place! The following blog discusses the kidney transplant cost in detail. But first, let’s understand the meaning of a kidney transplant.

What is a Kidney Transplant? ¹

A kidney transplant is a surgical procedure in which a diseased organ is replaced with a healthy donor kidney. This procedure is considered a life-saving treatment for end-stage renal failure. In this condition, the patient’s none of the two kidneys can adequately filter excess fluids and waste from the bloodstream.

The two types of kidney transplant procedures are as follows:

1. Living Donor Kidney Transplant: In this transplant, a living individual donates a healthy kidney. The living donor is usually a family member or a first-degree relative who is a compatible match with the recipient. Living donor kidney transplants offer several advantages:
   1. Better organ quality,
   2. Shorter waiting times
   3. Higher success rates
2. Deceased Donor Kidney Transplant: It involves using a kidney from a deceased donor. The kidney is retrieved from individuals who have registered for organ donation. This transplant can also be performed when the family of the deceased consents to organ donation.

Cost of Kidney Transplant ²

The kidney transplant cost can vary widely from one hospital to another, depending on several factors. Usually, it ranges between ₹ 4,00,000 to ₹ 10,00,000. The average cost of a kidney transplant is ₹ 7,00,000.

Kidney Transplant Cost Breakup ³

The overall cost of a kidney transplant is divided into various expenditures incurred during the procedure. The breakup of these expenditures is as follows:

Factors Affecting the Cost of Kidney Transplant ⁴

Several factors affect the price of the procedure. You must consult your healthcare provider to understand all potential expenditures. Factors that affect the kidney transplant cost include:

1. Donor Type: The source of the kidney, whether from a living donor or a deceased donor, can impact costs. Living donor transplants are usually more expensive as they involve expenses related to the donor’s evaluation, surgery, and post-operative care.
2. Hospital Choice: The choice of hospital and its location can significantly affect costs. A private hospital may cost more than a government hospital.
3. Type of Room: The cost is higher for a private room with modern facilities and better care.
4. Consultation Fee: The expertise and reputation of the surgeon can impact costs. A more reputed and talented surgeon may demand a larger fee.
5. Location or City: The procedure cost is higher in large cities than in small ones. Furthermore, hospitals in urban areas may have higher fees than those in rural areas.
6. Pre-Transplant Evaluation: Several medical tests and evaluations are necessary to ensure compatibility and assess the recipient’s overall health. These tests include blood tests, imaging studies, and biopsies that can add to the procedure cost.
7. Patient’s Age and Medical Condition: Older patients might require more extensive pre-operative evaluations and post-operative care. It can increase overall expenses. Patients with complex medical conditions may also need specialised treatments and extended hospital stays. As a result, they incur higher costs.
8. Surgery Approach: Whether Open, Laparoscopic, or Robotic Nephrectomy can significantly affect the total cost.
9. Post-Transplant Care: Regular follow-up appointments, monitoring, and potential treatments for complications contribute to the total cost.
10. Medications: After the transplant, recipients need lifelong immunosuppressive or anti-rejection medications to prevent organ rejection. This affects the overall cost.
11. Health Insurance Coverage: The extent of health insurance coverage can affect the procedure cost.

Financing Options for Kidney Transplant ⁵

In India, several financing options are available for individuals seeking a kidney transplant. Individuals must thoroughly research and explore these financing options before making an informed decision.

Government Schemes

India has various government-sponsored healthcare schemes to provide financial assistance for kidney transplants. One such scheme is the Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, which covers kidney transplant costs for beneficiaries at accredited hospitals.

Under this scheme, beneficiaries receive a sum of ₹ 5 lakh. This sum helps cover diagnostic costs, medical treatment, hospitalisation, etc.

Several government hospitals in India offer free or affordable kidney transplants. These hospitals include:

1. Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi
2. AIIMS, New Delhi
3. Indra Gandhi Government General Hospital, Puducherry

Health Insurance

Many health insurance plans in India cover kidney transplants. Usually, health insurance covers the complete kidney transplant procedure. The insurer provides a lump sum amount when you are diagnosed with the disease.

It can be used for the medical expenses incurred during the transplant. The sum insured varies depending on the insurance company and your health insurance plan. Generally, this amount can range from ₹ 1 lakh to ₹ 25 lakhs.

However, it is important to note that only a few insurance providers cover donor expenses. Therefore, patients should thoroughly review their insurance policy to understand the extent of coverage. Some insurance companies provide plans for kidney transplants:

1. Star Health Insurance
2. Aditya Birla Insurance
3. HDFC Ergo Health Insurance
4. Care Health Insurance
5. Bajaj Allianz

Medical Loans

Individuals can also opt for medical loans from financial institutions and banks in India. These loans are specifically designed to cover medical expenses incurred during kidney transplants. People living in India without health insurance can get a medical loan with the following benefits:

1. Instant approval
2. No processing fee
3. 0% interest
4. No collateral
5. Simple and flexible EMIs

Takeaway

The kidney transplant cost in India presents a cost-effective option for individuals seeking quality medical care. As India’s healthcare system strives to provide accessible solutions, patients can find relief and a path toward improved well-being. However, the cost of a kidney transplant can vary based on several factors. Therefore, you must consult a healthcare professional for the exact cost.

You can get in touch with the HexaHealth team to get an estimate of the kidney transplant procedure. The experts offer easy access to medical consultations, personalised treatment plans, and a network of top-tier specialists. Schedule your appointment TODAY!