What is Cost of Angioplasty Procedure in India?

Angioplasty is a procedure that helps treat coronary artery disease (CAD) and other conditions associated with the arteries. During this procedure, a catheter is used. It is inserted into the blocked artery. The catheter has a balloon at its tip, which is inflated to expand the artery. A stent is placed in the artery to keep it open.  

The cost of angioplasty procedure in India typically ranges between ₹1.5 lakh to ₹4 lakh or more, depending on hospital, city, and stent type.

The two types of arteries commonly treated with angioplasty are:

• Coronary Arteries: These are major blood vessels that enable blood supply to your heart.
• Peripheral Arteries: They carry blood away from your heart, helping it reach your hands, legs, and other body parts. 

Some common angioplasty techniques are as follows:

• Balloon angioplasty: Many procedures involve a medical balloon that helps move plaque out of the way.
• Angioplasty with stenting: Doctors often place a stent in the artery after it is dilated to keep it open. This is a common part of angioplasty procedures.
• Excimer laser coronary angioplasty (ELCA): Excimer Laser Coronary Angioplasty (ELCA) is a specialised procedure that uses laser energy to help remove or break down plaque blocking the coronary arteries. It may be used in certain cases to improve blood flow to the heart.
   

The cost of angioplasty procedure may be determined by the following factors:

• Type of Stent Used

Drug-eluting stents may be more expensive than bare-metal stents and may therefore raise costs. 

• Number of Blockages

If multiple arteries are blocked, multiple stents are required, which increases costs.

• Complications

If any unexpected medical issues arise during or after the procedure, the total cost may rise.

• Age of Patient

Some older patients may have more complex issues, which can make a longer hospital stay crucial. This can increase costs.

• Hospital Charges

Longer hospital stays and post-procedure ICU care can lead to higher expenses.

• Tests and Medications

Pre-operative tests and post-procedure medications contribute to overall costs.
 

Health insurance plays an important role in managing the costs associated with procedures such as angioplasty, as cardiac treatments can involve significant medical expenses. In addition to surgery costs, patients and families may also incur pre- and post-hospitalisation angioplasty expenses, which can create financial pressure. 

A suitable health insurance policy may help cover a substantial portion of these treatment-related costs, depending on the policy terms, coverage conditions, and waiting period provisions.

Most health insurance policies may cover the following:

• Hospitalisation costs
• Doctor fees
• ICU charges
• Pre and post-hospitalisation.
   

The aspects of treatment that may not be covered by insurance are:

• Room upgrades
• Specific types of stents
• Non-medical expenses.

It is important to note that many pre-existing conditions have a waiting period. During this period, an insurance policy may not offer coverage for this condition. It is therefore important to check specific policy details.

To file a health insurance claim, usually, completed and accurate documents must be submitted to the insurer. The following are some essentials:

• ID: Documents such as Aadhaar, PAN, and Driving Licence.
• Investigation Reports: Original reports, such as ECGs, blood tests, and scans.
• Bills: Original final hospital bill with detailed breakup, and payment receipts.
• Discharge Documents: Original discharge card or certificate from the hospital.

It is important to submit claim documents within the given time frame. This can help reduce the chances of claim rejection.

A cashless claim is one where the insurer directly settles bills with the hospital. A reimbursement claim is a request for reimbursement after the policyholder has paid bills. For cashless claims, the policyholder must be hospitalised at a network hospital and seek pre-approval.

As angioplasty cost in India can be high, cashless claims may be a suitable choice. They may be processed fast and require minimal out-of-pocket expenses. A reimbursement claim can be chosen if a hospital outside the insurer’s network is chosen for the procedure.

Angioplasty is an important surgery. It can help maintain healthy blood flow and reduce serious heart-related risks. Since angioplasty costs in India can vary significantly, having suitable health insurance is essential. Understanding procedure types, coverage, exclusions, and claim processes can help patients make informed decisions and focus on timely treatment and recovery.

Individuals can also explore health insurance plans from SBI General Insurance to help manage hospitalisation and treatment-related expenses more comfortably during critical medical situations.

1. Is angioplasty covered under insurance?

Yes. Angioplasty is covered by various health insurance plans. There are many cardiac-specific policies in India that cover hospitalisation, surgeon fees and even stenting costs.

2. What is the average cost of angioplasty in India?

There is typically no single cost of angioplasty. It depends on factors such as the city, hospital, stent type, and number.

3. How long does angioplasty take?

Typically, an angioplasty can take 30 minutes to 2 hours. You should consult the healthcare provider to get an accurate estimate of your procedure.