What is meant by Donor Expenses

Donor expenses refers to the medical expenses for organ transplants as a part of the medical expenses incurred by the policyholder.

Any transplant entails two people having to undergo surgeries – the insured recipient and the donor. All hospitalisation expenses – medical, surgical, pre- and post-hospitalisation expenses – incurred by the insured recipient are generally covered by the health plan of the recipient (i.e. the policyholder). Additionally, the cost of harvesting the organ - surgery and storage - are also covered. The treatment expenses of the recipient (policyholder) are fully covered up to the sum insured.

However, remember that the other costs incurred by the donor like room rent, post-hospitalisation expenses may or may not be covered under the health plan of the recipient. Also, note that donors cannot get their hospitalisation costs covered under their individual insurance policy. Therefore, the insured recipient may need to bear such expenses.

According to current market studies, the value of a kidney transplant could range from Rs 4-8 lakhs, while a liver transplant could end in an outgo of Rs 24-28 lakhs. Having an insurance cover with donor expenses covered will ensure you'll not need to worry about your finances before giving consent to a potentially life-saving transplant surgery.

Generally, most insurance plans cover the cost of organ transplants and the cost of surgery for the donor. Refer to the policy document to see if there are any limits prescribed for this head. Some health plans cover only the medical expenses incurred by the donor. While others also cover other costs like room rent, medicines, etc. Don't forget to check what’s included and not covered under donor expenses, while purchasing or renewing your health plan.