The expenses of treating lung cancer in India, which can be substantial because of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and medicine, can be greatly reduced with the help of health insurance. Although the extent of coverage varies by policy, the majority of health insurance plans cover the treatment of cancer, including lung cancer.

Because certain plans may contain waiting periods or exclusions for pre-existing conditions, it is imperative to review the precise terms and conditions. The coverage can be further improved with additional riders or critical illness insurance, which offers a lump sum payment to lessen the financial burden of lung cancer treatment and improve access to essential care.

1. What is lung cancer surgery?

Surgery for lung cancer

is a medical treatment used to remove cancerous tumors or afflicted lung tissue when the cancer is localized and has not progressed to other organs. Since surgery can provide the best chance of long-term survival for early-stage lung cancer, especially when paired with additional treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy, it is frequently the recommended course of treatment.

Lobectomy

This is the most common type of lung cancer surgery and involves the removal of an entire lobe of the lung, which contains the tumor. The lungs have three lobes on the right side and two on the left, and removing a lobe allows for the removal of a significant portion of the tumor while preserving much of the lung’s function.

Pneumonectomy

It is typically done when the cancer affects a large portion of one lung, and removing the whole lung is necessary to ensure all cancerous cells are removed.

Segmentectomy or wedge resection

These are less extensive surgeries where only a small part of the lung that contains the tumor is removed. This option may be suitable for patients who have small tumors or for those with reduced lung function, as it helps to preserve as much healthy lung tissue as possible.

2. Factors Influencing the Cost of Lung Cancer Treatment

Cancer Stage

Treatments for advanced lung cancer, which may involve chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or targeted therapy, are typically more costly than those for early-stage lung cancer, which may involve surgery or localized radiation.

Type of Treatment

The cost is influenced by the particular treatment needed, such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, or targeted therapy. Advanced therapies, including immunotherapy, chemotherapy rounds, and surgery, are typically more costly than regular treatments.

Hospital and Location

The reputation of the hospital, its location, and the kind of care it offers can all affect treatment expenses. The expense of treatment is frequently higher in urban areas than in rural ones.

Insurance Coverage

A patient’s out-of-pocket costs may vary depending on their type of health insurance. The total cost to the patient is heavily influenced by insurance coverage, co-pays, and deductibles.

3. Lung Cancer Treatment Cost in India 2024

The stage of the cancer, the type of treatment needed, the hospital’s reputation, and the treatment location all have a substantial impact on the cost of lung cancer treatment in India in 2024. Comprehensive treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and other required therapies, can often cost between ₹8.5 lakh and ₹10 lakh (about $10,000 to $11,000).India Medical Travel
India’s Med Surge Due of their advanced nature, treatments like immunotherapy and targeted therapy may become more expensive.​

CARE FOR BHARATONE India is renowned for providing affordable healthcare, with treatments frequently being significantly less expensive than those in Western nations without sacrificing quality.​

4. Is lung cancer covered by insurance?

Yes, health insurance usually covers lung cancer as long as it doesn’t contain limitations for pre-existing conditions or particular cancer-related terms. The majority of comprehensive health insurance plans in India and around the world cover the expenses of diagnosing and treating lung cancer, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and prescription drugs. The scope of coverage, however, could differ based on the insurance company and kind of policy.

• Lung cancer is not covered by many policies if it is deemed a pre-existing condition, unless it was declared at the time of policy acquisition.
• The reimbursement from critical illness insurance is usually a lump sum that can be utilized for treatment, recuperation, or other purposes; however, lung cancer is frequently covered if you have it.

Conclusion

Comprehensive health insurance can greatly reduce the financial burden, even if lung cancer treatment in India might be expensive. Health insurance guarantees prompt, high-quality care by paying for hospital stays, treatments, and prescription drugs. Selecting a plan that provides sufficient coverage for cancer treatment, such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery, is essential. Additionally, choosing cashless hospitalization might save money by avoiding upfront payments and streamlining the claims procedure.

FAQs

1. How can I prevent lung cancer?

Avoiding smoking, the primary cause of lung cancer, is one of the most crucial things you can do to prevent it. The risk is greatly decreased by quitting smoking or never starting. It’s also critical to stay away from dangerous compounds like asbestos and radon, as well as secondhand smoke. The risk of lung cancer can also be decreased by eating a diet high in fruits and vegetables, exercising frequently, and scheduling regular checkups with your doctor.

2. Are there any side effects of lung cancer surgery?

Pain or discomfort, excessive bleeding, infection, blood clots, etc. are some of the potential adverse effects of lung cancer surgery. Your doctor will prescribe medication to manage the side effects and improve them.

3. Does health insurance cover the full cost of lung cancer treatment?

No, the entire expense of treating lung cancer might not be covered by health insurance. The scope of coverage may be impacted by variables such as insurance restrictions, exclusions, and growing medical expenses.

4. Is lung cancer treatment more expensive in metro cities?

Indeed, the cost of treating lung cancer is typically higher in major cities like Bangalore, Delhi, and Mumbai. This is because these areas offer more specialized care, more sophisticated medical facilities, and higher hospital fees. In smaller cities and rural locations, where healthcare facilities may have reduced operating costs, treatment costs might be substantially lower.