Treatment Costs and the High-Cost Medical Expense Benefit

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. I've heard SCS is expensive. What will I actually pay?

The total bill is large, but what you pay is capped at your income category's monthly limit. Two things to know in advance: a trial and an implant in different months can mean two months at the cap, and meals and private-room charges are extra. The hospital's patient support office can give you a figure for your own category.

Q. I was admitted without the certificate.

You can still apply afterwards and be refunded for anything above the cap (allow two to three months). The certificate can also be applied for during your stay; a family member can visit the counter for you.

Q. Do I have to apply every month?

Most insurers pay automatically in later months once you have applied (some National Health Insurance municipalities require a new application each time). With the certificate or My Number card, the counter payment itself is capped, so there is nothing to claim back.

Read next

→ Comparing Treatment Options — benefits, costs, risks, and long-term outlook by treatment

→ Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) — how it works, from trial to permanent implant

→ Questions to Ask Your Doctor — checklists by situation, including cost questions

→ Supporting a Family Member — how to apply for long-term care insurance