Navigating the Cost of Spinal Fusion Surgery Without Insurance: Insights & Strategies
Overview of Spinal Fusion Surgery
A spinal fusion surgery is one of the most commonly performed spinal procedures, aimed at stabilizing the spine and reducing pain caused by various spinal conditions. The procedure entails joining together two or more spinal vertebrae to eliminate motion between them. This helps treat pain and discomfort caused by a mobile spine segment. The procedure is usually performed along with a decompression surgery to relieve pressure on the spinal nerves. The spine's bones fuse or join together after the surgery, preventing motion between the two vertebrae, thus relieving a person of backache.
The procedure is usually performed in the lumbar or cervical regions of the spine.
The various spinal conditions where a spinal fusion surgery may be indicated, include Degenerative Disc Disease, Spondylolisthesis, Spinal stenosis, Non-union fractures of the spine, Disc prolapse, Scoliosis, etc.
Spinal fusion surgery cost without insurance
Considering that the spinal cord is one of the most complicated structures in the human body, and so is spinal surgery, the procedure requires great dexterity and expertise on the part of the surgeon. A spinal fusion surgery is typically performed by a senior neurosurgeon or orthopedic surgeon, who usually charges a hefty sum of money. Besides, it requires sophisticated infrastructure and instrumentation, which comes at a significant cost burden, if needs to be done without insurance coverage.
A very important question frequently asked is- How much does Spinal Fusion Surgery cost without insurance in the USA? And in other Western countries?
The average cost of Spinal Fusion surgery without insurance in the US ranges anywhere from a sizable $60,000 to astronomical $250,000! These costs vary depending on the complexity of the procedure, the number of vertebrae being fused, the type of hospital or surgical center, the geographic location, and the surgeon's expertise. Furthermore, there may be additional expenses besides just the surgery, including the pre-operative diagnostics tests, anesthesia charges, hospital stay, post-operative care, follow-up appointments, etc. And God forbid if you are uninsured, these costs are certainly going to break your bank!
The cost of Spinal fusion surgery without insurance can be a significant financial burden. Not only in the US, a lot of uninsured people in countries like Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and other Western countries find it difficult to afford Spinal fusion surgery without insurance.
Let's have a look at the Cost of Spinal fusion surgery without insurance in different countries:
- Cost of Spinal fusion surgery without insurance in New Zealand:
'Surgery for back issues ranks as one of the most expensive procedures in New Zealand', as mentioned by Southern Cross Health Insurance, New Zealand's largest non-public health care organization. Notably, eight of the top 10 most costly claims received by the leading health insurer are for spinal fusions. Not to mention, each of these procedures has significant out-of-pocket expenses and co-payments.
For people who are uninsured, the average cost of Spinal fusion surgery without insurance in New Zealand ranges from NZ $ 120,000-200,000 (approx.US$ 75,000- 120,000).
- Cost of Spinal fusion surgery without insurance in Australia:
'Spinal fusion is the most complicated surgery for back pain and the priciest orthopedic procedure in Australia', as per a study conducted by the University of Sydney. Depending on the health insurance one holds, the total cost of the surgery can range anywhere from AU$ 55,000-70,000, with out-of-pocket expenses potentially nearing AU $10,000- 15,000. Of course, aside from other self-pay amounts like post-operative physical therapy, home modifications, assistive devices, etc.
And for someone uninsured, needless to say, the entire funds go from out of pocket!
- Cost of Spinal fusion surgery without insurance in Canada:
The average cost of Spinal fusion surgery without insurance in Canada ranges anywhere from CA $ 40,000-110,000 (approx.US$ 30,000- 80,000), depending upon the number of levels being treated, surgeon, hospital facility, and other factors.
Not only the high costs but the biggest boulder in getting spinal fusion surgery in Canada is the long waiting times. Canada's healthcare system is grappling with significant challenges in delivering efficient and timely surgical procedures. As per statistics, in the year 2022, the average wait time, from a general practitioner's referral to a consultation with an orthopedic specialist, was 16 weeks and the wait time for treatment was 32.4 weeks, this of course does not include the wait time to see the GP.
This makes for a whopping 48 weeks for a common orthopedic procedure! Similarly, there are long wait times for diagnostic imaging ranging anywhere from 6 to 12 weeks for ultrasounds to MRIs. The situation has worsened since then.
A quick comparison of the above data can be made from the following image:
Even for people who are indemnified by insurance, only a part of the expense may be covered subject to the terms and conditions of the policy they hold. The deductibles, co-pays, etc may make for a large sum of money. In addition, there may be significant waiting periods, which can cause substantial discomfort or lead to a worsening of the condition.
All these factors force a lot of people to look for alternative options, where they can get quality healthcare at affordable prices.
Why opt for Spine Surgery Abroad?
The common reasons why a lot of people from Western countries are opting for Spine Surgery Abroad are:
- Lack of private health insurance
- Elective spine surgery not covered by the policy
- Inability to get Government medical assistance
- Inability to afford surgery at a private hospital
- Never-ending waiting list for surgery at a public hospital
Spine surgery abroad offers a practical solution to the above problems and one can avail of safe, quality surgery abroad at affordable costs. These timely, well-coordinated surgeries significantly improve the quality of life by relieving the patient of pain and discomfort and allowing them to lead a normal life. Not to mention, all within their budget!
Top 3 Countries for Spinal Fusion Surgery Abroad
The leading countries that offer a great proposition for Spine Surgery abroad are:
- Singapore
Singapore's healthcare system is renowned for its effectiveness and high quality. The country's top-quality infrastructure and medical technology in the field of spine surgery, coupled with its highly skilled specialists, make it a sought-after destination for spinal fusion surgery.
However, there are both advantages and disadvantages that each country offers. Here are a few for Singapore:
Advantages:
- Superior medical care
- JCI Accredited Surgical centres
- Expert Surgeons
Advantages:
- Superior medical care
- JCI Accredited Surgical centres
- Expert Surgeons
Disadvantages:
- Relatively higher cost of Spinal fusion surgery without insurance
- Language barrier as Mandarin is the major language spoken in the country
- Korea
South Korea has emerged as a top player in offering state-of-the-art medical care, particularly in spinal fusion surgery. Renowned for sophisticated medical equipment and expert surgeons, the country offers a range of spinal procedures at competitive prices.
Advantages:
- State of the art technology
- Skilled surgeons
- Reasonable prices
Disadvantages:
The major drawback is the communication barrier, as a lot of surgeons and medical personnel speak only Korean language.
- India
India is a leading destination for patients seeking spine surgery. India offers several benefits in terms of highly affordable surgical options, renowned medical facilities, etc, however, the biggest pro is the expertise of Indian surgeons, who are renowned the world over for their skill and expertise.
Advantages:
- Highly affordable cost of Spinal fusion surgery without insurance
- Eminent surgeons
- State-of-the-art medical centers
- Treatment at par with international standards
Disadvantages:
Significant distance and long-haul flights, especially from the US
What makes India the best option for Spinal fusion surgery abroad?
India clearly stands out as the best option for spinal fusion surgery abroad. The various factors that make India the preferred medical tourism destination for spinal fusion surgery is:
Highly skilled Board-certified surgeons- India boasts a large pool of highly skilled and experienced surgeons. Some of the best spinal surgeons in India have years of experience behind them and have trained and practiced internationally.
Most affordable costs- The cost of Spinal Fusion surgery in India starts from as low as US $ 4500, which is less than one-tenth of the cost in the USA and other Western countries, making it an economically attractive choice.
JCI-Accredited clinics- Indian hospitals provide high-quality medical care, with many facilities accredited by international organizations such as JCI (Joint Commission International).
Availability of advanced medical technology- The best orthopedic hospitals in India offering spine surgery are equipped with state-of-the-art technology and the latest medical equipment, ensuring that patients receive the latest and most effective treatments.
Treatment protocols as per international standards- Since a large number of surgeons in India are Internationally trained, they are well versed with international norms and follow the same protocol ensuring that the patients get the best care.
Zero waiting times- Considering the competitive market in India and the availability of innumerable private hospitals, India offers surgery at zero to negligible waiting times.
Comprehensive Care- The care that international patients receive in India is no less, if not better, than what they would get in the best hospitals worldwide. The spinal fusion surgery is always done on an inpatient basis in India, with the patient staying at the hospital for at least 4-5 days post-surgery, getting 24*7 nursing & medical care.
No Language barrier- As English is widely spoken in India and almost all surgeons speak fluent English, most patients do not face any language barrier.
Achieving a Hassle-free Medical Trip to India
Achieving a hassle-free medical trip to India for spinal fusion surgery involves careful planning and coordination. There are various steps involved before one can embark on the journey, which include sharing medical reports and consultation with various surgeons, selecting a surgeon and hospital, cost estimation and financial planning, visa and travel arrangements, arranging for accommodation after discharge from the hospital, etc.
All these steps and arrangements could be unnerving for someone overseas and already in pain! Additionally, navigating the logistical arrangements in an unfamiliar country can be challenging. A medical tourism company like IndiCure Health Tours could just be the right solution in such a scenario.
A reliable and trustworthy company like IndiCure, which has an experience of more than a decade, helps and guides medical tourists in a step-by-step manner, helping and hand-holding them at each step of the way.
IndiCure, with its selection of the best spine surgeons and hospitals, recommends reputable surgical facilities and surgeons in Tier 1 cities of India. They get the patients connected one-on-one with various surgeons through a virtual consultation so that one can discuss all their concerns and make an informed decision. Once the surgeon and hospital are finalized, they guide the patients about the financial implications and provide transparent cost estimates for surgery, including hospital fees, surgeon fees, and additional expenses.
They also assist with the visa process, guiding the patients through the process of obtaining a medical visa and necessary documentation.
Once the pre-travel arrangements are made, the patient flies to India as per the pre-decided itinerary. Greeted by a representative from IndiCure at the airport, the patient is escorted to the designated hospital/ hotel, followed by the entire treatment. IndiCure representatives are there with the patients at all times they need them, besides arranging for their inland transfers, appointments with the doctors, hospital stays, follow-ups, etc.
Serving as a point of contact between the patient and healthcare providers, IndiCure makes sure that the patients have a hassle-free surgical experience in India.
Overall, with the support of a medical tourism company such as IndiCure Health Tours, one can choose to undergo spinal fusion surgery abroad to alleviate pain and discomfort, enabling them to return to a normal life without enduring prolonged wait times for surgery in their home country.
