Insurance - Explanation

Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance plans usually cover most of the costs for kidney dialysis and kidney transplants. However, there are  some costs that insurance typically doesn’t cover, such as time off from work, meals, and travel. 

Here’s some more information about insurance coverage for kidney dialysis and transplants:

·        Medicare

Covers most kidney dialysis and transplant services, including 80% of dialysis treatment costs and 80% of immunosuppressant medication costs after a transplant. To receive the full benefits of Original Medicare, you need both Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Part B (Medical Insurance). If you’re eligible for Medicare because of ESRD, you can also get Part D (drug coverage) by joining a Medicare drug plan.

·        Private insurance

Covers the medical costs of testing and surgery for both the kidney donor and recipient. However, private insurers may pay more for dialysis  than Medicare.

·        Employer Group Health Plan (EGHP) 

Serves as the primary insurance for 30 months after starting dialysis or having a transplant. After that period, EGHP becomes secondary  insurance and Medicare becomes primary. 

 

Other organizations may also be able
to help with costs related to kidney transplants and dialysis, such as grants,
tax credits and donations from living donors.