Heart Surgery Cost in Kolkata

What is Heart Surgery?

Heart surgery is performed to treat various heart conditions, including blocked arteries, congenital defects and valve problems. Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is one of the most common heart surgeries, where a graft is used to bypass blocked arteries. This restores normal blood flow, which is crucial for patients with severe coronary artery disease. Other common cardiac procedures include repairing or replacing faulty valves and addressing heart rhythm issues.

The surgical technique used for heart surgery varies depending on the patient's condition and the complexity of the heart issue. For instance, open-heart surgery involves opening the chest and stopping the heart temporarily for complex cases. On the other hand, minimally invasive procedures use smaller incisions, often with robotic assistance, for faster recovery.

What is the Cost of Heart Surgery in Kolkata?

Despite Kolkata's advanced healthcare facilities and highly skilled surgeons, the cost of heart surgery can differ significantly. Factors such as the type of surgery, the hospital chosen, and the surgeon's experience play a significant role in determining the final price. Below is an overview of heart surgery costs in Kolkata:

• Minimum Heart Surgery Cost in Kolkata: ₹1,30,000 to ₹20,00,000
• Maximum Heart Surgery Cost in Kolkata: ₹3,00,000 to ₹28,00,000

Disclaimer: The price mentioned above is not precise. It may vary for different types of heart surgery and from one hospital in Kolkata to another.

What is the Cost of Different Components of Heart Surgery in Kolkata?

The cost of heart surgery in Kolkata extends beyond surgeon fees and operation theatre expenses. Hospital facilities, post-operative care, and pre-surgery diagnostics significantly impact the cost. The table below outlines the cost of these essential components of heart surgery in Kolkata:

Disclaimer: The prices mentioned above are not precise. It may vary for different types of heart surgery and from one hospital in Kolkata to another.

What are the Types of Heart Surgery in Kolkata?

Kolkata offers a range of heart surgeries, each addressing different cardiovascular conditions. Every procedure is tailored to the patient's unique health requirements. The various heart surgeries in Kolkata and their associated costs are given below:

Disclaimer: The prices mentioned above are not precise. It may vary for different types of heart surgery and from one hospital in Kolkata to another.

Why Does Heart Surgery Cost Vary for Different Patients in Kolkata?

Heart surgery costs in Kolkata vary for each patient due to several factors. Here are some key considerations that influence the final cost:

1. Type of Hospital

   The choice of the hospital determines the cost of heart surgery. It is expensive to undergo treatment at a private hospital because of its modern technology and high-quality services. Government and public hospitals are more cost-effective, where patients can get basic services. Hence, a patient having heart surgery at a private hospital pays more than the one in a government facility.

2. Type of Procedure

   The type of surgical approach also plays a major role in the heart surgery cost. Minimally invasive procedures are less expensive than open-heart surgeries because they require shorter hospital stays, fewer resources, and a lower risk of complications. For instance, a patient undergoing a keyhole surgery in Kolkata will incur lesser costs than one requiring a complex open-heart or off-pump surgery.

3. Type of Surgery

   Different types of heart surgeries vary in price. For example, a heart transplant will be a lot more expensive than bypass surgery. Other operations, like valve replacement or other transplants, need different degrees of complexity and the level of complexity. Thus, heart surgery costs depend mainly on the type of surgery.

4. Stay in the Hospital

   The time a patient spends in the hospital affects the total cost of heart surgery. The extent of hospital stay depends on how quickly a patient can recover and return to their regular life. Hence, procedures requiring longer hospital stays, like bypass surgery, are more expensive than minor procedures, such as an angioplasty, that require shorter stays.

5. Patient's Health Status

   The patient's health status also plays an important role in the total bill of heart surgery. Patients with complex medical histories or those who develop post-operative complications, such as infections or arrhythmias, need special care and longer recovery times. Thus, the surgery will cost more for such patients than a patient with fewer risks.

6. Qualification and Experience of the Surgeon

   The cost of heart surgery depends much on the surgeon's qualifications and reputation, as the surgery's outcome depends on the surgeon's skills. Experienced surgeons with high reputations, especially well-known cardiologists in Kolkata, usually charge higher fees because they possess quality expertise.

7. Surgical Devices and Tools Involved

   The type of devices used in the operation is another crucial factor determining heart surgery's cost. For example, it is more expensive to implant a pacemaker than a simple stent. Thus, patients pay less for angioplasty and more for a pacemaker implementation surgery. Interventions involving advanced tools or specialised grafts will increase the cost of the surgery as well.

8. The Type of Hospital Room

   The patient can control the hospital room rent to reduce the heart surgery costs. A private room with extra amenities is much more expensive than a shared ward. Patients who want to be more comfortable in private rooms pay more towards the hospital room rent. On the other hand, those who choose shared hospital rooms often have a lower bill.

Does Health Insurance Cover Heart Surgery in Kolkata?

Indeed, Health insurance in Kolkata usually covers heart procedures. It covers the cost of in-patient hospital stays, including room rent, diagnostic testing, drugs, and ambulance fees, as well as pre and post-hospitalisation costs, including rehabilitation and therapy.

Some policies provide extra benefits, such as home care treatments, coverage for second medical opinions, and daily hospital allowances. However, the coverage offered can vary between plans, so it is crucial to understand each policy's specific details and limitations.

Besides, heart insurance plans designed to cover various heart-related treatments are also available in the market. Moreover, critical illness policies pay out a lump sum amount when the insured is diagnosed with severe conditions, like heart attacks.

However, most health insurance plans have a 30-day waiting period before the coverage begins. Critical illness policies often come with up to 90 days of waiting period before coverage becomes active. For those with pre-existing heart conditions, the waiting period can range from 1 to 3 years before the insurance covers related treatments.