As you can see in the previous section, entitled Transplant Average Cost Transplantation is expensive, Hospitalization is expensive, Organ procurement is expensive and Surgery is expensive. Then there are the immunosuppressive medications you will need for the rest of your life. They're expensive, too. It all adds up to lots and lots of money. But don't despair. Help is available.

First, your transplant center will require an evaluation of your present insurance coverage at the time you are listed for your transplant. You will be referred to the financial counselor who will contact your insurer to determine the extent of your coverage. This will give you a good picture of what is insured and what costs you will be expected to pay out of pocket. If your insurance coverage is adequate, congratulations. If not, you have some work to do.

When you need financial assistance, your number one stop should be your transplant center. All centers have a social worker or financial counselor experienced in assisting patients. Ask your financial counselor for assistance. Some hospitals provide complete financing (or even free care) for your transplant.

Another valuable source of information is the booklet "Financing Transplantation" prepared by the Patient Affairs Committee of UNOS. (See "Reference Material" for ordering information.)

To further assist you, we have listed other organizations that can help you with financing your transplant, either through fundraising assistance or direct financial aid. None of these provide easy solutions, but they are worth pursuing when you need help. You may need to demonstrate financial need to qualify and the criteria will vary from program to program. Please note that we do not recommend or endorse any particular agency.

Medicare covers kidney transplants and provides the recipients with Cyclosporine and other drug coverage for up to three years after transplantation. After that time, the patient must purchase his/her own supply with or without insurance.

Finally, see "Pharmaceutical Manufacturers' Programs", where we listed pharmaceutical companies that provide free or low-cost prescription drugs for patients whose doctors certify that they are in financial need.