How Much Does a Lung Transplant Cost? A Comprehensive Guide to Expenses

Detailed cost breakdown

Single lung transplant costs

• Total estimated cost: $929,600 for a single lung transplant in the United States before insurance

Breakdown of typical costs:

• Pre-transplant medical care (30 days): $32,100
• Organ procurement: $110,100
• Hospital admission for transplant: $523,700
• Physician cost for transplant: $55,100
• Post-transplant medical care (180 days): $165,300
• Immunosuppressants and other medications: $43,300

Double lung transplant costs

• Average cost: $850,000 for a double lung transplant in the US in 2024

Additional costs to consider

• Health insurance premiums, deductibles, and co-pays
• Pre-transplant medications
• Unexpected pre-transplant hospitalizations
• Medical travel and temporary lodging for transplant listing and recovery
• Relocation or moving expenses due to the transplant
• Mileage, tolls, and parking fees for transplant-related medical travel
• Caregiver costs, including lost work

Factors affecting lung transplant costs

• Patient's condition: Patients with pulmonary vascular disease face 35% higher costs during the index admission compared to those with obstructive lung disease
• Age: Patients aged 55 and older may have lower costs during the index admission
• Complications: Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, mechanical ventilation, and surgical complications in the post-transplantation period can increase costs
• Location: Costs can vary by city and country, with India offering significantly lower prices (ranging from $17,000 to $39,000 for a single lung transplant)

Insurance coverage

• Medicare coverage: Medicare Part A and B pay 80% of the approved amount for a medically necessary lung transplant procedure and medical care
• Patient responsibility: The patient is typically responsible for the remaining 20%, uncovered drugs, Part B deductibles, and certain facility fees
• Private insurance: Coverage varies by policy, but patients may still face significant out-of-pocket expenses

Long-term costs

• Immunosuppressant medications: These are required lifelong and can represent a significant ongoing expense
• Follow-up care: Regular check-ups and potential complications can add to long-term costs

Cost-saving strategies

• Generic medications: The use of generic drugs can significantly reduce the cost of transplantation
• Fundraising: Organizations like Help Hope Live offer assistance in crowdfunding for medical costs
• Exploring international options: Some countries, like India, offer significantly lower costs for lung transplants