How Much Do Prosthetic Fingers Cost?
A finger prosthesis can be considered after a traumatic accident, cancer, disease or to even hide deformities.
More than just restoring your physical appearance and self-esteem, prosthetic fingers can also help improve a person’s quality of life by allowing them to perform functions as if they had a fully functioning hand.
How much do prosthetic fingers cost?
The cost of a prosthetic finger will depend on the company you use and the materials the fingers are made from. Depending on the finger and whether it is partial or full, the prices of prosthetic fingers can vary anywhere from as little as $5,000 for a partial finger to as much as $70,000 for a technologically advanced finger that can move as you could naturally. This is the price for the design and finger/s alone and will not include the fitting and therapy beforehand.
ABC News did a piece on prosthetic fingers that were made from bike parts. This device, in particular, could range anywhere from $5,500 for a partial finger to as much as $9,500 for just the thumb.
This USA Today article talked about a man who created a DIY Prosthetic device after an amputation, but the replacements, as the article stated, could cost upwards of $40,000 for an advanced prosthesis.
Another article in the New York Times talked with a company called Touch Bionics, the creators of a device that’s able to replace all of the fingers on the hand. Their prosthesis was able to use a tiny motor and gearbox that’s mounted on the base. Including fitting and the occupational therapy, the costs could be in the $60,000 to $75,000 range.
For those who have a health insurance policy, most will find that their policy will cover a portion or even all of the costs as long as the provider you’re using is approved within the insurance company’s network. On top of this, you will have to show your current level of function to prove it’s medically necessary. Since all health insurance policies are different, be sure to check with your provider before making an appointment. For those who either want to switch or get a new policy, eHealthInsurance.com has thousands of policies through which you can browse for free.
Prosthetic fingers overview
An excellent finger prosthesis, according to FingerProsthetics.com, should be similar to the characteristics of your current fingers, looking similar to your real skin. and should have a precise shape on each finger, with lines under each knuckle. Secondly, a prosthetic finger should always be custom made to ensure a correct fit. This will help the finger stay on properly and protect the flesh underneath. Lastly, a prosthetic finger made with a medical grade silicone can last much longer as the material tends to be stronger than an inexpensive silicone.
What are the extra costs?
Following the initial surgical procedure, follow-up visits, medication and/or extended physical/occupational therapy sessions may be required, all of which will be outside of the estimates mentioned above. These fees will greatly depend on the number of sessions required to see desirable results.
Repairs and adjustments also need to be budgeted for in the future may also be needed down the road which could lead to additional costs.
Since prosthetic fingers last for around seven to 10 years, depending on the material, you will need to budget for replacements in the future.
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Average Reported Cost: $1000000
How much did you spend?
- janki (delhi, Indiana) paid $1000000 and said:
Limb finger
Was it worth it? Yes