If you need a knee replacement, you may be concerned about the expenses associated with this procedure and how you can find the best knee replacement surgeons. While a knee replacement can range from $30,000 to $50,000 on average, the final cost will depend on your unique situation. Here is a look at various knee replacement costs to help you be better prepared and make the right decisions for your care.
Consider Your Health Insurance Coverage
Your health insurance will play a key role in how much you have to pay out-of-pocket for your surgery. Review your policy if you aren’t sure about coverage limits and deductibles or even which procedures are covered. For insurance to cover the costs, the doctor will need to order the surgery and it must be approved by your insurance provider. Having such approval proves that it is a necessary procedure and will help prevent the claim from being denied.
Type of Knee Replacement
The cost of the procedure will also depend on whether you’re getting a partial or total knee replacement or if you’re having a revision from previous surgery. Each type of replacement will have a different level of complexity and require various equipment.
Revision surgery is the most expensive procedure while partial knee replacement is usually less than the price of total replacement. Your doctor will advise you on which type of surgery will provide the best results for your medical condition.
Inpatient or Outpatient
Inpatient surgery means you will be staying in the hospital after your procedure while outpatient allows you to go home the same day. Some knee replacement surgeries are scheduled as outpatient procedures, which means patients can go home the same day as surgery if they can pass specific criteria. Outpatient surgeries are much cheaper than inpatient procedures because you have the added hospital stay on top of the cost of surgery.
You may have the option to get the surgery done at a surgery center instead of a hospital. These centers generally focus on same-day surgeries, but they won’t usually take high-risk patients. Hospital fees increase with the expense of an operating room.
Some patients may require extra care for recovery after the procedure. In these instances, they may qualify for transitional care at a long-term care facility or with in-home health care. These services can be beneficial for the patient, but they will result in added costs.
Physical Therapy
While not part of the actual surgery, physical therapy will most likely be part of your knee replacement recovery. Physical therapy will help strengthen muscles around the knee. Such care will provide assistance as you learn how to walk and move more confidently once more.
The cost of physical therapy will depend on how often the doctor recommends you attend and for how long. Some people make improvements right away while others will progress at a slower pace. Talk to your doctor to determine what they would recommend.
The Cost of the Best Knee Replacement Surgeons
Never overlook your choice of a surgeon when it comes to this kind of procedure. Always select someone who is experienced and can answer your questions while making you feel comfortable about having the surgery. For example, your knee surgeon should inform you of your anticipated recovery time and how to care for your knee post-procedure.
Do your research and ask for referrals from people you know. Make sure you select a knee replacement surgeon who has a solid reputation for success. When you’re trying to find ways to cut costs, don’t let it be the surgeon who will be performing your knee replacement. You should never settle for less than the best.