The brain is the most vital organ of the human body. It is responsible for proper body functioning, reasoning, and data consolidation. Additionally, it also works on functions like memory, emotions, logic, and intelligence.
In the event of brain damage, a person can experience loss of any or all functions mentioned above. Brain damage is life hampering event that can result in death or create abnormalities that are temporary or permanent. Brain damage is fatal and very expensive medical treatment is required to address the issue which can cause a dent in the savings. Let us read through to understand whether or not brain surgery cost is covered under health insurance.
What is brain surgery?
As the name suggests brain surgery is a surgical operation on the organ called the brain. This surgery is carried out to address any functional abnormality of the brain. Being the most important part of the body the surgery is of utmost sensitivity and importance therefore it is conducted by a team of specialists called the neurosurgeon. The treatment or the surgery should be conducted with utmost precision as if in the event of misjudgement it might lead to interference with vital functions of the body.
Brain surgery is a complex procedure therefore depending upon the health of the patient it is conducted. Earlier, conducting brain surgery involved many risks however with recent technological advancements in the field of medicine now carrying out brain surgery under the guidance of qualified doctors is possible depending upon the medical circumstances.
Why is the brain surgery conducted?
The purpose of brain surgery is to treat any abnormality or disease related to the brain or its functions. There are certain conditions where brain surgery is suggested. Such conditions are as under:
- Any damage to the brain caused due to aneurism
- Brain haemorrhage
- Formation of tumour
- Release Pressured brain nerve
- Draining of abscess or blood in the brain
Following is the list of brain surgeries that are conducted in the event of cognitive impairments
- Tumors
- Haemorrhaging
- Aneurysm
- Thrombosis
- Fractured skull
- Neural injury
- Neural inflammation
- Parkinson's disease
- Cerebrovascular accident (CVA)
- Seizures
- Irregular blood vessels
- Cerebral edema
- Post-traumatic pressure
- Cerebral abscesses
- Dura mater damage
Following is a list of types of brain surgeries carried out in India:
- Biopsy
- Craniotomy
- Neuroendoscopy
- Deep Brain Simulation
- Endonasal Endoscopic Surgery
- Posterior Fossa Decompression
- Thrombectomy and cerebral aneurysm repair
Since brain surgery of sensitive the risks associated with it are also high. The following are probable risks involved in brain surgery.
- Memory Loss
- Speech impairment
- Impairment of bodily functions and body control
- Blood Clot
- Stroke
- Coma
- Infection
What is the cost of a Brain surgery?
The brain is the most important organ on which the entire functioning of the body is dependent. Any surgery or treatment of the brain is costly. Bearing this cost can cause a financial hole in one's savings. The cost of the brain surgery depends on the following factors:
- type of ailment,
- the health of the patient,
- the city in which the patient is stationed, and
- the hospital at which the patient plans to undergo the treatment.
Thus keeping in mind the above factors the range of the cost of brain surgery in India varies between INR 2.00 Lakhs to INR 10.00 Lakhs. The mentioned range typically includes numerous costs related to:
- blood tests
- brain scans
- pre-hospitalisation expenses
- post-hospitalisation expenses
Thus, keeping in mind the numerous expenses attached to the brain surgery it is important to have a health insurance plan that covers them. Having a health insurance policy will help relax the financial stress caused due to the ailment.
Do we have health insurance covering brain surgery?
The answer to this vital question is YES. Certain health insurance policies offer coverage for brain surgery. In India, keeping in mind the importance and sensitivity of the need for treatment many top health insurance companies have come up with plans that offer insurance coverage so that the insured is reimbursed for the cost of the surgery or treatment. The insurance coverage covering the cost of brain surgery also covers the following:
- Pre-hospitalisation expenses
- Post-hospitalisation expenses
- Ambulance charges
- Intensive Care Unit charges
- In-patient care
As brain treatment is critical some of the insurance companies offer coverage under critical illness health insurance. In the event of diagnosis of brain illness, an individual with a health insurance policy providing cover for brain ailments shall receive the reimbursement either in a lump sum or in instalments as per the terms and conditions of the policy. To get an entire understanding of what is included and excluded from the insurance plan read the policy document carefully as it states the complete terms and conditions of the insurance coverage.
Does brain surgery have a waiting period under health insurance?
Most of the health insurance plans in India have a waiting period. A waiting period is a timeframe within which the insured cannot claim insurance coverage for specific coverage including brain surgery in the health insurance. Even though the said illness is a part of the insurance coverage the health insurer shall not honor any claims raised during the waiting period.
The waiting period timeframe is decided by the insurance company and it can vary anywhere between 30 days to 90 days. Additionally, under a critical health insurance plan the health insurance company may add 30 days of survival clause i.e. the insured must survive for more than 30 days after diagnosis of the disease. If in the event of death before the completion of the survival period, the insurer will reject the insurance claim. So it is best to check the terms and conditions of the policy before purchasing the health insurance plan.
Conclusion
Brain ailments like epilepsy, clots, bleeding, infection, tumours, etc. are difficult in nature and severity. The treatment and surgeries are very expensive so having a health insurance plan will help in relieving the stress and getting the best treatment. So, select a plan that covers for treatment and surgery of the brain. Don’t forget to check for the terms and conditions related to the waiting period, pre and post-hospitalisation expenses, daycare treatment, and so on. Be ready to face the treatment without worrying about finances.
