Cost Estimates for Foreign Patients Undergoing Orthopedic Surgery in Taiwan

Consultation regarding the full self-payment for foreign nationals for plate removal surgery, hospitalization, and rehabilitation?

My mother is a mainland Chinese citizen.
In February of this year, she accidentally slipped and fell at home, resulting in a fracture of her left ankle.
She underwent surgery on both the inner and outer sides, where a steel plate and two screws were implanted.
The doctor mentioned that she would need another surgery in about a year to remove the plate and screws.
Due to limited medical resources at home (mainly the lack of a rehabilitation department), I plan to bring her to Taiwan at the end of the year for the surgery to remove the screws and plate, as well as to undergo proper rehabilitation.
She does not have Taiwan's National Health Insurance, so all expenses will be out-of-pocket.
I would like to inquire about the estimated costs for the surgery and hospitalization.
Additionally, what would be the approximate cost for post-operative rehabilitation sessions? Of course, the specific costs will depend on the patient's actual condition, but I hope to get a rough estimate to have a better understanding.
I look forward to your response.
Thank you!

Cui Xiaojie, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/08/16

Dr. Chen Yongxue reply Orthopedics

Hello, the prerequisite for removing the steel plate after a fracture is that the fracture site must be healed.
Please assess the costs involved, and kindly ask the inpatient team to provide an approximate calculation.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2017/08/16

More Info

When considering orthopedic surgery in Taiwan for a foreign patient, particularly for a case like your mother's where she needs to have metal plates and screws removed from her ankle, there are several factors to take into account regarding costs and the process involved.

Cost Estimates
1. Surgical Costs: Based on previous consultations and estimates, the cost for orthopedic surgery in Taiwan for foreign patients without National Health Insurance (NHI) typically ranges from NT$55,000 to NT$100,000 (approximately USD 1,800 to USD 3,300). This estimate includes the surgical procedure itself, which may involve anesthesia, surgical materials, and the surgeon's fees. For your mother's specific case of removing a plate and screws, the costs might be on the lower end of this spectrum, but it can vary depending on the complexity of the surgery and the specific hospital.

2. Hospitalization Fees: The cost of hospitalization can vary significantly based on the type of room (general ward vs. private room) and the length of stay. Generally, a hospital stay for orthopedic surgery can cost around NT$7,000 to NT$10,000 per day (approximately USD 230 to USD 330). If your mother requires a stay of about 3 to 5 days post-surgery for recovery, this could add an additional NT$21,000 to NT$50,000 (USD 700 to USD 1,650) to the total bill.

3. Rehabilitation Costs: Post-operative rehabilitation is crucial for recovery, especially after orthopedic surgery. The cost for rehabilitation sessions can vary, but typically, each session may cost around NT$1,500 to NT$3,000 (USD 50 to USD 100). Depending on the rehabilitation plan, which may include multiple sessions per week over several weeks or months, the total rehabilitation costs could range from NT$30,000 to NT$100,000 (USD 1,000 to USD 3,300) or more.

Application Process
For foreign patients seeking treatment in Taiwan, the following steps are generally recommended:
1. Consultation: It is advisable to first consult with a hospital or clinic in Taiwan that specializes in orthopedic surgery. Many hospitals have international patient services that can assist with scheduling appointments and providing information on costs.

2. Medical Records: Prepare and bring all relevant medical records, including imaging studies (like X-rays or MRIs) and surgical reports from previous procedures. This information will help the Taiwanese doctors assess her condition accurately.

3. Visa and Travel Arrangements: Ensure that your mother has the appropriate visa to enter Taiwan for medical treatment. It may also be beneficial to arrange for travel insurance that covers medical expenses, even if she is self-paying.

4. Payment Arrangements: Since your mother does not have NHI, be prepared to pay for the services upfront or as per the hospital's payment policy. Some hospitals may require a deposit before surgery.

5. Post-Operative Care: After surgery, follow-up appointments will be necessary to monitor recovery and manage rehabilitation. Ensure that you have a plan for these follow-ups, which can often be arranged through the hospital.

Conclusion
In summary, for your mother's surgery to remove the metal hardware from her ankle, you should budget approximately NT$100,000 to NT$200,000 (USD 3,300 to USD 6,600) for the entire process, including surgery, hospitalization, and rehabilitation. It is essential to consult with the hospital directly for the most accurate estimates and to understand the specific services they offer for international patients. With proper planning and care, Taiwan can provide high-quality orthopedic treatment and rehabilitation services.

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