5 Things Kidney Donors Should Know about Insurance

1. Most insurance plans cover some portion of the costs associated with living donation. Check with your specific plan provider to find out what transplant-related costs are covered.

2. The kidney recipient’s insurance—whether Medicare or private insurance—can help pay for transplant-related medical costs, including the evaluation process, surgery and recovery care.

3. The kidney recipient’s insurance does not cover the donor’s lost wages from time off at work, travel expenses or other non-medical costs. It also does not cover other medical care that is not transplant-related. If you have to miss work, ask your employer about your eligibility for sick leave and the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA).

4. It is important to make sure the transplant center and your insurance provider coordinate with each other to help avoid any impact to your insurance after a kidney donation.

5. Make certain to talk to a social worker and insurance counselor at the transplant center to help answer any other questions you may have about the potential costs associated with kidney donation and insurance coverage.