With the healthcare field constantly changing it is difficult to pinpoint the exact price of surgical procedures. However, it can be assumed that most surgeries will be expensive, whether you or your insurance company is paying the bulk of the fee. Birth defects surgery is no exception. These procedures can be just as costly as others.
Topamax, the popular migraine and epilepsy medication, may increase the risks of cleft lip and cleft palate birth defects. The potential harm to a newborn child may also be accompanied by a major hit to your wallet.
Birth Defect Surgery is Increasingly Costly
Healthcare Blue Book states that cleft lip surgery alone can cost an upwards of $1700. If your newborn baby suffers from a birth defect, such as cleft lip or cleft palate, that surgery costs on average more than $4000. These prices can vary depending on anesthesia fees and hospital fees that are not always included in the cost of the birth defect surgery. Other sources have the surgeries varying in price by several $1000 and the exact price of your child’s health will depend according to severity and location of the defect, as well as other external factors.
After learning of a child’s birth defect, parents will understandably be concerned about their little one’s health, providing the best outcomes, and of course, the financial aspect of their health. Some insurance providers include birth defects surgery, but your insurance coverage will determine your medical fees and payment processes. There are several organizations that financially assist families of those with cleft lips or palates. One such organization, Smile Train, helps families who are in poverty or cannot afford the healthcare expenses of a cleft lip or palate.
Your doctor can provide more resources when it comes to the financial dimension of the procedure. Your individual situation is unique and may vary depending on other factors.
Birth Defects Attorneys in New Jersey and Philadelphia
If your child was recently born with a birth defect and you believe it may be attributed to your use of Topamax during pregnancy, you probably have a long list of questions. Please contact the Mininno Law Office for a free case evaluation, or call for a free consultation at (856) 833-0600 in New Jersey, or (215) 567-2380 in Philadelphia.