How much out-of-pocket for a caesar

[bundymummy]

There is a thread going at the moment with out-of-pocket expenses, but I can't see any ladies who've had caesars.

Has anyone had a caesar with PHI? How much were you out of pocket? I'll be a private patient in a public hospital, and have a spinal (I'm assuming a general would cost more :confused:) but I definitely would not have a GA unless medically necessary.

Thanks ladies

[kla]

Hi

I had an elective c-section, with spinal. I was in a private hospital though. Not sure if that will make any difference.

Out of pocket costs for the anesthetist for me was $240.
(Total bill was $1000- the rest was covered by PHI and Medicare).

Often if you are having an elective you can contact the Anesthetist office before hand and find out costs etc.

K

[bundymummy]

What about theatre fees etc and all the other stuff that goes along with a c-section (pain killers afterward etc etc) Or was that all covered through your PHI?

Sorry if I sound dumb! I'm just trying to prepare myself :) Thanks K

[kla]

I think it will depend on who you are insured with and what type of arrangements they have with the hospital and the doctors etc.

I'm with Medibank and was able to take advantage of the Gap Cover arrangements that they have made with some specialists and hospitals etc. Best to call who ever you are insured with to discuss.

Aside from the anesthestist bill which I mentioned before, the only other "in hospital" cost I had was my optional hosptial excess- (about $200 in my case but that varies depending on what you have chosen etc).

Of course prior to my c-section and hospital stay I had all my OB appointments, management fee and scans etc which are not covered my PHI-(these were the same regardless of type of birth) but you do get some back from Medicare. Again costs vary so much between OBs it's probably best to speak to them directly.

This was all in a private hospital. I'm not sure what the case is when you are a private patient in a public hospital. They should be able to tell you that though.