Survivors of organ transplants face ongoing battles with high medication costs and financial aid challenges
After a transplant, patients need immunosuppressants and other drugs forever. These medicines help prevent the body from rejecting the new organ. But they come with a steep price. Monthly costs can hit ₹10,000 to ₹30,000. That’s a lot for many families.
Dr. Manoj Durairaj, a leading heart surgeon, says many can’t afford these expenses. Hospitals are reaching out to companies for financial help. He’s even adopted two patients to support their costs.
Dr. Sheetal Mahajani points out that not everyone can manage these high expenses. She believes pharmaceutical companies should lower prices to help boost organ donations. Some aid is available from the National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation for those in need.
Dr. Abhijeet Phadnis, who oversees the state’s organ transplant program, says the health department checks for any illegal transactions in organ donations.
A senior official from the Mahatma Jyotirao Phule Jan Arogya Yojana scheme shared that the government offers ₹4.50 lakh for renal transplants at certain hospitals.
One kidney transplant recipient shared their struggle. They said the transplant was a second chance, but the ongoing costs are draining their savings. They can’t work full-time due to health issues.
Dr. Yallapa Jadhav from Sassoon General Hospital mentioned that while tests are free, they can’t provide the necessary medicines. Patients are referred to the Social Service department for help with funding their medications.
