Is Circumcision for Phimosis Covered by Health Insurance in Taiwan?

Is circumcision for phimosis covered by health insurance?

I am experiencing phimosis, which prevents the glans from being exposed during an erection.
Is circumcision due to phimosis covered by health insurance? If I choose to pay out of pocket, how much would the circumcision cost at a hospital in Taoyuan?

xiang ge, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/02/10

Dr. Chen Xiuyi reply Urology

Hello! Phimosis occurs when the glans cannot be exposed during an erection, and surgical treatment is required.
Generally, health insurance does not cover this procedure, and the out-of-pocket cost is approximately over 5,000 NTD.
Please arrange for an outpatient visit.
Sincerely, Dr.
Chen Hsiu-Yi, Director of the Urology Department, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2004/02/10

More Info

In Taiwan, circumcision for phimosis is generally covered by the National Health Insurance (NHI) if it is deemed medically necessary. Phimosis is a condition where the foreskin cannot be easily retracted over the glans (the head of the penis), which can lead to discomfort, pain, or recurrent infections. If a patient experiences significant symptoms or complications due to phimosis, such as pain during erections or recurrent urinary tract infections, a healthcare provider may recommend circumcision as a treatment option.

When seeking treatment, it is essential to consult with a qualified urologist or healthcare provider who can evaluate the severity of the phimosis and determine if circumcision is warranted. If the physician concludes that the circumcision is medically necessary, the procedure should be covered under the NHI, which means that the patient would only need to pay a small co-payment, depending on the specific hospital and the patient's insurance status.

If the circumcision is not deemed medically necessary, or if the patient chooses to undergo the procedure for personal or cosmetic reasons, it would not be covered by the NHI. In such cases, the patient would need to pay for the procedure out of pocket. The cost of circumcision in a private hospital can vary widely based on the facility, the surgeon's fees, and any additional services provided. Generally, the cost may range from NT$10,000 to NT$30,000 or more, depending on these factors.

It is also important to note that if you are considering self-paying for the procedure, you should inquire about the total costs upfront, including any potential additional fees for anesthesia, hospital stay, or follow-up care. Hospitals often provide a breakdown of costs and may offer package deals that include all necessary services related to the circumcision.

In summary, if you are experiencing phimosis and are considering circumcision, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms and treatment options. If the procedure is deemed medically necessary, it should be covered by health insurance. If not, be prepared for the possibility of self-paying for the procedure and clarify all costs involved beforehand.

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