Does Health Insurance Cover Deep Brain Stimulation?

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is a surgical procedure where electrodes are placed in a specific part of your brain. Yes, many comprehensive health insurance plans include coverage for conditions of Deep Brain Stimulation under ‘Advanced Treatment Methods’.

What are the Conditions Treated with Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery?

DBS is usually treated when medications do not show any effect or lead to side effects. The treatment is suggested for conditions like:

• Parkinson’s disease (PD)


• Essential tremor (ET)


• Dystonia


• Epilepsy


• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)


• Chronic Pain


• Severe obesity


• Depression

What is the Average Cost of Treating DBS in India?

DBS is a commonly practised therapy in India. Its cost varies due to various factors. Let us find out the cost of Deep Brain Stimulation in India.

Why Early Health Insurance Planning Matters for DBS?

According to the Parkinson's Foundation, nearly 10 million people worldwide are living with Parkinson’s disease, one of the primary conditions treated using DBS. DBS treatment involves significant expenses, which include:

• Hospitalisation


• Neurosurgery


• Implanted devices


• Post-operative care

This can create substantial financial stress without insurance support. A comprehensive policy can reduce out-of-pocket expenses and improve access to specialised hospitals, neurologists, and advanced treatment facilities during critical medical situations.

What Does Health Insurance Cover for DBS?

Coverage generally includes the surgical procedure, hospitalisation, pre- and post-hospitalisation costs, and follow-ups. Depending on the plan and sum insured, the insurance offers coverage for:

• Pre - surgery evaluation


• Hospitalisation and neurosurgery


• Electrode and neurostimulator device cost


• DBS installation procedure


• Post-surgery treatment

What is the Process for Claiming Insurance for DBS?

There are two ways to claim the insurance for Deep Brain Stimulation:

• Reimbursement Claim


• Cashless Claim

1. Reimbursement Claim

• Pay the hospital bills directly at the time of treatment.


• Collect all original medical documents, bills, prescriptions, and discharge summaries.


• Submit the claim documents online or at the nearest insurer branch and send originals if required.


• The insurer verifies the documents and processes the claim according to policy terms.

2. Cashless Claim

• Check for a nearby network hospital through the insurer’s official website or mobile app.


• Inform the insurer before hospitalisation or within 24 hours in emergencies.


• The hospital submits a pre-authorisation request for approval.


• After approval, treatment can proceed without upfront payment for covered expenses.

Navigating the costs and claims for DBS can be a daunting task. If one hasn’t explored the insurance regarding DBS, it is high time to secure a comprehensive plan that covers critical neurological treatments.