Most Indians pay for their own medical treatment, kidney related or otherwise. The cost of one session of hemodialysis is about Rs. 1,200 when the dialyzer and tubings are reused. When a new set is used, it can be about Rs 2,000. This is probably the average cost across India. The cost comes to about Rs. 15,000 per month. Add to this, the cost of Erythropoetin, lab tests, doctor consultations and other medicines.
The total cost of treatment, then, is atleast, about Rs. 25,000 per month... Beyond reach of an average Indian patient. Based on a study it was found that the monthly cost of three exchanges a day peritoneal dialysis is same as of thrice a week hemodialysis in self-paying Indian patients. However the choice of dialysis option is driven more by flexibility and capability. Educating your patient about the advantage/disadvantage of each option is crucial. Dr. Mike Evan explains it…
