Chemotherapy Cost in Hyderabad

Posted on: Nov 8, 2024 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

Chemotherapy Cost in Hyderabad

Hyderabad is the new corporate hub with many international companies opening their branches in the Pearl City. But do you know what else is mushrooming in the city? It’s the cancer treatment centres and hospitals. Individuals from different parts of the country, as well as from neighbouring countries, are coming to Hyderabad with hopes of becoming cancer-free. While medical science has made giant strides with significant improvements in diagnosis, the cost of healthcare facilities has also gone up. For instance, chemotherapy sessions aren’t that cheap. So, here’s all you need to know about the chemotherapy costs in Hyderabad.

What is the Cost of Chemotherapy in Hyderabad?

The cost of chemotherapy in Hyderabad depends on several factors like the type of hospital, infrastructure, type and stage of cancer, treatment plan and duration, type of drugs prescribed, etc. However, it can range from Rs 20,000 to Rs 1,50,000 per cycle.

What Factors Impact the Cost of Chemotherapy Treatment in Hyderabad?

As you are aware, chemotherapy cost in Hyderabad depends on several factors, such as –

• Type of hospital:

The type of hospital and its infrastructure can impact the cost. If you prefer a private hospital, specialised cancer centre, or multi-speciality hospital over a government-run healthcare facility or smaller clinic, it will be way more expensive. These hospitals may have advanced technology, better infrastructure, experienced doctors, and other services, for which they charge significantly more.

• Type of cancer:

The chemotherapy treatment plan can vary based on the type of cancer. While some cancers may be treated with medicines alone, others may need targeted therapy, hormone therapy, or immunotherapy, which are often more expensive.

• Stage of cancer:

If the cancer is detected in the early stages, it may require a few cycles and less intense treatment with affordable cost. However, advanced-stage cancers require frequent and aggressive treatments, increasing your overall costs.

• Treatment plan and duration:

Chemotherapy is often administered in cycles, and the number of cycles depends on the type and stage of cancer. While some individuals diagnosed with cancer may need weekly chemotherapy sessions, others may need to undergo chemo sessions every few weeks. Hence, more cycles translate to more expenses.

• Diagnostic tests:

Laboratory tests are ongoing, adding to the overall cost of chemotherapy. Before starting chemotherapy, you must undergo blood tests, biopsies, and imaging tests such as MRI, CT scan, PET scan, etc., to decide the treatment plan. Then, during or after chemo cycles, additional tests may be required to determine how the tumour responds to chemotherapy.

• Chemotherapy drugs:

If the drugs prescribed are generic, the cost will be comparatively less than newer drugs. The dosage of drugs also plays a role in the overall cost.

• Consultation fees:

Oncologists, who are renowned and have vast years of experience and expertise, will charge more for their services.

• Travel and miscellaneous expenses:

A patient travelling to Hyderabad for chemo cycles will have additional expenses such as travel, accommodation, etc.

Are there any Additional Costs Associated with Receiving Chemotherapy?

Yes. In addition to the chemotherapy costs, there are additional expenses like –

• Managing side effects:

Chemotherapy often causes side effects like nausea, vomiting, pain, infections, fatigue, or other complications. Managing these side effects with additional medications or hospitalisations is an additional cost.

• Supportive care:

Psychological support, physical therapy, nutritional counselling, and palliative care are crucial to keep the patient in good spirits and maintain the quality of life during treatment. Supportive care comes with additional costs.

• Treatment refills:

As the treatment progresses, the prescription drugs may also increase, leading to extra costs.

• Post-treatment monitoring:

Regular follow-up visits and tests are required for monitoring the recovery and effectiveness of the treatment. Tests are also done to check the recurrence of the tumour.

FAQs related to Chemotherapy Costs in Hyderabad

1. How much does chemotherapy cost in Hyderabad?

There’s no fixed price for chemotherapy because it depends on multiple factors like type and stage of cancer, the hospital you choose for treatment, duration of treatment, consultation fees, etc. On average, it can range between Rs 20,000 and Rs 1,50,000 per cycle.

2. Can I claim insurance for cancer treatments?

Yes. Critical illness insurance covers critical illnesses like cancer, stroke, paralysis, etc. Once you get diagnosed with cancer and survive a certain period, the insurer will provide a lump sum compensation up to the sum insured. The standard health insurance policy will also provide coverage but will not be adequate.

3. Why do private hospitals charge more than government hospitals?

This is because of advanced technology, better infrastructure, amenities, and other services. The specialists in private hospitals also charge higher fees.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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