Endometriosis - Out of pocket Surgeon Fees

[firemansgirl]

BG

I had two major ops at the beginning of the year for removal of endo level 4/5 from my bladder, first op and second op right ovary and bowel. I think my surgeon, (head gyno only) charged approx 7000, but he actually gave me 50 percent off as i am a nurse. Then the second op he schedule fee charged me (got all back from medicare and medibank private). The second op i had to pay 3700 to the Colorectal surgeon for surgery on my bowel, and approx 900 to the anaethetist. The reason why these guys charge so much, is due to their insurance. They charge way above the gap, as i think there insurance premiums are up in the 50 000 - 100 000 dollar mark per year. The surgery is so refined and intricate these days, they have to charge these astronumical amounts. This particular surgeon was through 'ECCA' in sydney, and they are renowned for charging like wounded bulls, but have the reputation as some of the best in the country/world for treatment of severe endo. I would of morgaged my house if needed, as the pain relief i now have, and the difference in lifestyle/sick days is unbelieveale. If someone said i would have so much relief i would never of believed them...

Regards

leis x

[BellyGirl]

Thanks for the response firemansgirl, it helps put my costs in better perspective =)

So for your first op you were about 3 grand out-of-pocket for the surgeons fees, health insurance and medicare didn't cover this amount? So your health insurance did not have a 'no-gap' or 'known-gap' agreement with the surgeon you used?

Thanks again for your advice!