Will the Cost of Back Surgery Be Covered By My Insurance

Back surgery is sometimes used to treat conditions which occur in the spine and back. For people who have been suffering from issues like chronic pain, muscle weakness, and numbness in the limbs, getting effective treatment in the form of surgery is important. Below, we'll explore some back surgery basics, as well as what to expect in terms of the cost of back surgery.

Who Needs Back Surgery? 

Back surgery can be life-changing for people who need it, but it's rarely the first course of treatment. Less invasive methods come with lower costs, downtime, and risks, so they are preferable when applicable. For example, most common spine conditions respond well to methods like physical therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. On the other hand, surgery may be needed for:

• Cases which don't respond to conservative conditions
• Cases in which symptoms are very severe
• Cases in which symptoms are getting progressively worse
• Cases in which conservative treatments are not an option, as can occur with certain rare and serious conditions 

There are two main types of spine surgery - open spine surgery and laser spine surgery. Open spine surgery is the more traditional procedure; it is highly invasive and has a significant recovery time. Laser spine surgery is a less invasive procedure, with a shorter recovery time and a lower risk of certain complications. In some cases, the fact that laser spine surgery is minimally invasive may lead to lower costs. However, the factors that influence the cost of surgery and the patient's portion of that cost are complex.

Insurance Coverage

No matter how much you need back surgery, the cost of back surgery can be a cause for concern. In cases where back surgery - either traditional or laser - is identified as a medically necessary procedure, insurance should cover the cost. The exact degree of coverage will depend on the specifics of your insurance plan, such as your co-pay and deductible.

Most people are able to manage their portion of the cost of back surgery without major trouble. If you are not able to pay your out-of-pocket costs immediately, you have several options. You can ask your doctor whether or not he or she offers payment plans, and you can also look into third-party financing options.

To schedule a consultation about treatment for your back pain, please click below and enter your information or call the Datta Endoscopic Back Surgery and Pain Center at (347)-380-9138.