Urology Costs: Apologies and Insights from a Patient's Journey - Urology

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Doctor, I want to apologize to you..?


Doctor: I want to apologize to you.
Before I received your reply, I went to Borin Hospital in Taipei this morning.
I thought you would probably want me to visit the hospital as well.
Here’s the main point: I feel like I’ve been scammed.
The doctor at Borin referred me to another clinic, claiming it was an authority, a Dr.
Hsu.
The clinic is also located near Borin.
Before I went, they told me that there might be a problem with my veins and that I needed to undergo a contrast study, which would cost 8,000 NTD.
If there was indeed an issue, the surgery would cost 10,000 USD.
That’s ridiculous—over 300,000 NTD! Where would I get that kind of money? I just walked out.
I have a problem with my "brother," not with my brain.
So I’d like to ask you, is it really that expensive for the examination and surgery? How much would the doctor you referred me to at National Taiwan University charge? Additionally, the people at that clinic told me the cure rate is as high as 90%.
Is that true? One last question: Have you heard of Shutian Urology Clinic? It seems quite famous on Jianguo South Road in Taipei.
Lastly, I want to apologize again for the trouble I’ve caused you.
Thank you.

I have another question: Based on my issue from yesterday, do you think it’s more likely that I have a venous leak? Because the doctor at Borin said the same thing today.
However, after thinking it over calmly, I want to ask: could it be related to my hormones? I often hear that men can lose their rationality due to impulses, but I’ve never lost my rationality in that way.
Also, if it is indeed a venous leak, how long would the treatment take? How long until I can fully recover after treatment? Lastly, is this surgical procedure very extensive? Is it similar to the circumcision I had before, where they had to "open up" and "organize" things? Doctor, to be honest, I’m starting to feel a bit scared.

cyp, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/07/25

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology


CYP: Hello, there's no need to apologize; perhaps my response was a bit slow.
That said, for general erectile dysfunction caused by venous leakage, surgery is required to ligate the leaking blood vessels.
There are various surgical methods, and the incision is usually located at the base of the penis.
The size of the incision depends on the number and location of the leaking vessels.
The success rate of the surgery is closely related to the experience of the physician, with a good physician achieving a success rate of around 75% to 90%.
The cost of the surgery varies significantly depending on the hospital and the technique used, as this procedure is not covered by health insurance.
The duration of the surgery is approximately 20 to 90 minutes, which is considered relatively minor.
However, due to the conservative mindset of the population, the actual number of individuals undergoing the surgery is low.
The Shuutian Clinic initially focused on urology but has gradually expanded to include other specialties such as ophthalmology.
As for its quality, I cannot provide a definitive answer.
I would like to give you a perspective: even within medical centers, there are physicians with varying levels of skill.
The hospital should be secondary to the physician; you should choose the physician rather than the hospital.
Returning to your question, statistics from Taiwan and even worldwide indicate that erectile dysfunction is roughly divided into three categories: psychological, neurological, and vascular, with hormonal factors being quite rare.
Claims regarding hormonal issues are often influenced by public perception, suggesting that a lack of male vigor may be due to testosterone deficiency and other factors.
However, the Western medical perspective does not frequently attribute erectile dysfunction to hormonal factors.
Urology Department Director Hsu Wei-Kai responds on behalf of the Taitung Hospital of the Executive Yuan Health Department, expressing concern for you.

Reply Date: 2005/07/25

More Info


Dear Patient,
I appreciate your candidness in sharing your experiences and concerns regarding your urological health. It’s understandable to feel overwhelmed, especially when faced with potential diagnoses and the associated costs of treatment. Let’s break down your questions and concerns systematically.


Understanding Costs of Urological Procedures
1. Cost of Diagnostic Tests and Surgery:
The costs associated with urological procedures can vary significantly based on the complexity of the condition, the type of diagnostic tests required, and the healthcare facility. For instance, imaging tests like contrast-enhanced CT scans or MRIs can range from $500 to $3,000, depending on the facility and the specifics of the procedure. Surgical costs can also vary widely; a straightforward procedure might cost around $10,000, while more complex surgeries could exceed $30,000. It’s essential to discuss these costs upfront with your healthcare provider and check if your insurance covers any part of these expenses.

2. Treatment Efficacy and Cure Rates:
When a clinic claims a high cure rate (like 90%), it’s crucial to understand the context. Cure rates can depend on various factors, including the specific condition being treated, the patient’s overall health, and the type of treatment administered. Always seek clarity on what the statistics mean and how they apply to your specific case.

3. Reputable Clinics:
Regarding your inquiry about the Shuten Urology Clinic, it’s always wise to research and read reviews about any medical facility. Recommendations from trusted healthcare professionals can also guide you to reputable specialists.


Possible Diagnosis and Treatment Options
1. Venous Issues and Hormonal Influence:
If your doctor suspects a venous issue, it’s essential to understand that conditions like varicoceles (enlarged veins within the scrotum) can lead to symptoms such as pain or discomfort. Hormonal factors can influence vascular health, but they are not typically the primary cause of venous problems. If you have concerns about hormonal imbalances, discussing these with an endocrinologist may provide additional insights.

2. Treatment Duration and Recovery:
The treatment duration for venous issues can vary. Non-invasive treatments may require a few weeks of recovery, while surgical interventions could necessitate a longer recovery period, typically ranging from a few weeks to a couple of months. Your healthcare provider will give you a more tailored timeline based on your specific situation.

3. Surgical Procedure Complexity:
The complexity of the surgical procedure will depend on the specific diagnosis. Some procedures may be minimally invasive, while others could be more extensive, similar to a circumcision in terms of recovery and care. It’s important to discuss the surgical approach with your urologist, who can provide detailed information about what to expect.


Emotional and Psychological Considerations
Feeling anxious about medical procedures is entirely normal. It’s essential to communicate these feelings with your healthcare provider, who can offer support and possibly refer you to a mental health professional if needed. Understanding your condition and the steps involved in your treatment can help alleviate some of that anxiety.


Conclusion
I encourage you to continue seeking clarity from your healthcare providers regarding your diagnosis, treatment options, and associated costs. It’s your right as a patient to understand your health and the financial implications of your care. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and there are professionals available to support you every step of the way.

Please take care, and don’t hesitate to reach out for further questions or concerns.

Best regards.

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