What is the General Cost of Heart Surgery?

Heart Surgery Cost in India: Price Breakdown and Key Factors Explained

According to a 2016 survey by the WHO (World Health Organisation), 27% of the deaths from non-communicable diseases were due to heart disease. CVDs, or cardiovascular diseases, are caused by issues in your blood vessels and heart. Severe cardiovascular disorders need surgical intervention to offer the affected person a healthy life ahead. 

However, the cost of heart surgeries may vary due to several factors. If you are undergoing heart surgery, it is essential to understand its cost, factors that affect it, and coverage under your health insurance. 

Keep reading for better insight!

How Much Does Heart Surgery Cost in India?

In India, the average expenditure of a heart surgery ranges from ₹1.5 lakhs to ₹5 lakhs. The price may vary from one region to another and also depends on the type of surgery. For instance, the price of a CABG (coronary artery bypass graft) is nearly ₹2.75 lakhs, but the price may increase to ₹3 lakhs in cases where devices are implanted in the heart. 

What Factors Affect the Cost of Heart Surgery in India?

Here are some of the factors that affect the price of heart surgery in India:

●  Location Type

In metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai, etc., the cost of heart surgery is higher than that in 2 or 3-tier cities like Patna. 

●  Type of Hospital

One of the major factors affecting the cost of heart surgery in India is the hospital where the surgery is performed. Private hospitals include advanced infrastructure, top surgeons, and other amenities which are not available in government hospitals. Thus, the cost of surgery in private hospitals is higher than that in government hospitals.

●  Surgeon’s Expertise and Reputation

If you get heart surgery from a reputed surgeon with years of experience and expertise, you need to pay a higher charge. However, surgeons with less experience and qualifications will charge an affordable price.

●  Type and Procedure of Heart Surgery

The price of heart surgery varies depending on the procedure and type of surgery performed by your healthcare provider. For instance, the expenses of heart bypass surgery are more than those of pacemaker surgery. Similarly, open-heart surgery is more costly than less invasive surgery.

●  Duration of Hospitalisation

The duration of your hospital stay also affects the cost of heart surgery. If your heart surgery procedure requires you to stay in the hospital for a long time, it will be expensive since you have to pay for nursing care, room rent, etc., for a long time.

As compared to other countries, India offers heart surgery at affordable rates. However, considering the average income of the people in our country, it is still considered expensive.

How to Reduce the Cost of Heart Surgery?

To make open heart surgery more affordable, you can follow these strategies listed below:

●  Price Comparison

Compare prices across different hospitals and locations by researching online platforms and consulting healthcare providers to get accurate cost estimates tailored to your needs. 

●  Discount Negotiations

Don’t hesitate to negotiate with hospitals, especially if you have financial constraints or referrals. You may be able to secure discounts on surgery, accommodation, or other services through proper discussion with the relevant authorities.

●  Go to Government Hospitals

Opting for government or charitable hospitals can significantly reduce expenses. These institutions often provide subsidised or even free treatment for eligible patients, though the quality of care may vary.

 
●  Utilise Government Healthcare Schemes

Take advantage of government healthcare schemes that offer financial aid or insurance coverage for heart surgeries. By meeting eligibility criteria, you can reduce the financial burden.

●  Medical Tourism

It is another option worth exploring to reduce the cost of your heart surgery. Countries like India provide excellent cardiac care at much lower costs compared to many Western nations. 

However, if you choose this route, consider visa requirements, travel arrangements, and cultural differences to ensure a smooth experience. These approaches can help make open heart surgery more accessible and affordable.

Is Heart Surgery Covered Under Health Insurance Policies?

Most health insurance plans in India generally cover the following costs associated with heart surgery, including:

●  Hospitalization Expenses

It includes hospitalisation expenses such as room rent, operating theatre fees, and surgeon’s charges. Additionally, outpatient department (OPD) expenses, such as tests and consultations, are often included before admission. 

●  Pre-hospitalization Expenses

Medical expenses incurred up to 30 days prior to hospital admission are typically reimbursed, although this period may vary by insurer. 

●  Post-hospitalization Expenses

Medical costs up to 60 days after discharge are also covered by health insurance, with some variation depending on the policy. 
Furthermore, modern and advanced treatments related to heart surgery are included within the sum insured, ensuring comprehensive financial protection for patients undergoing cardiac procedures.

Specialised health insurance policies for heart patients and critical illness plans offer extensive coverage for heart surgery expenses. These policies provide a lump sum payout to cover medical costs, ensuring strong financial protection against the high expenses associated with heart surgery. Choosing the right plan is crucial for financial security.

At Star Health, we also offer coverage for heart-related surgeries and treatments under our Star Cardiac Care Insurance Policy, which is specially tailored to your needs. We provide hassle-free claim settlements with reduced turnaround time across over 14,000 network hospitals in India. 

For more information, contact Star Health today!

Also Read:

→ Cost of Breast Reduction Surgery in India

→ Cost of Laser Eye Surgery in India

→ Cost of Cardiac Angiography

→ Average Cost of a Piles Surgery

→ Average Cost of Laser Treatment for Piles