A pacemaker is a small, life-saving device that helps regulate a person’s heartbeat. If you or a loved one are in need of a pacemaker in Bangladesh, understanding the costs involved is a crucial first step. The price can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the type of pacemaker, the hospital, and the doctor’s fees.
Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know about pacemaker costs in Bangladesh.
What is a Pacemaker and Why is it Needed?
A pacemaker is a small electronic device implanted in the chest or abdomen to help control abnormal heart rhythms, a condition known as arrhythmia. It sends electrical pulses to the heart muscle to ensure a steady and healthy beat. Pacemakers are commonly used to treat:
- Bradycardia: A heart rate that is too slow.
- Heart Block: When the electrical signals in the heart are disrupted.
- Heart Failure: Advanced pacemakers can help improve the heart’s pumping efficiency.
Pacemaker Implantation Costs in Bangladesh
The total cost of a pacemaker procedure in Bangladesh includes the cost of the device itself and the fees for the surgery and hospital stay. Pacemaker prices can vary widely, but here is a general range based on available data from various hospitals and health services:
- Single-Chamber Pacemaker: This type of pacemaker uses one lead to regulate a single chamber of the heart. It is the most affordable option. The cost for the implantation procedure and device can range from BDT ৳80,000 to ৳120,000.
- Dual-Chamber Pacemaker: This more advanced device uses two leads to connect to both the atrium and ventricle, allowing for a more synchronized and natural heartbeat. The cost for this type of pacemaker is higher, typically ranging from BDT ৳150,000 to ৳265,000.
- Other Advanced Pacemakers: More complex devices, such as biventricular pacemakers (CRT devices) for heart failure or pacemakers with defibrillator functions (AICD/CRTD), are significantly more expensive, with costs reaching up to BDT ৳1,000,000 or more, depending on the model and hospital.
Please Note: Some hospitals may offer a package price for the procedure, while others list the surgery cost separately from the pacemaker device cost. For example, some hospitals might charge a package price of around BDT ৳90,000 for a dual-chamber procedure, but this does not include the cost of the device itself.
Key Factors Influencing Pacemaker Cost
Several variables can affect the final price you pay for a pacemaker in Bangladesh:
- Type and Brand of Pacemaker: The most significant factor is the type of pacemaker required. More advanced and technologically sophisticated devices from international brands like Medtronic or Boston Scientific will cost more. The government has also set price ceilings for pacemakers, with variants ranging from BDT ৳65,000 to ৳1,000,000.
- Hospital Type: Costs can vary between public and private hospitals. A premium private hospital with state-of-the-art facilities and a specialized cardiac team will have higher charges than a government-run institution.
- Surgeon’s Expertise: The fee for the cardiologist or cardiac surgeon performing the procedure can also influence the total cost. Highly experienced and renowned doctors may charge a premium for their services.
- Additional Medical Expenses: The final bill will also include costs for:
- Pre-operative diagnostic tests (ECG, blood tests, echocardiogram).
- Anesthesiologist fees.
- Hospital stay (typically 1-3 nights).
- Medications and post-operative care.
- Potential costs for managing complications or readmissions.
- Location: The cost may vary slightly depending on the city, with hospitals in Dhaka often having a higher average cost for procedures compared to other regions like Chittagong or Khulna.
Leading Hospitals for Pacemaker Implantation
Several hospitals in Dhaka and other major cities in Bangladesh are well-regarded for their cardiology and cardiac surgery departments, offering pacemaker implantation services. These include:
- Evercare Hospital Dhaka
- United Hospital
- Labaid Cardiac Hospital
- Ibrahim Cardiac Hospital & Research Institute
- National Heart Foundation
- Square Hospitals
- Others
Finding Affordable Pacemaker Care
While the cost of a pacemaker can be a significant concern, several resources are available to help:
- Public and Private Hospitals: Research and compare prices from different hospitals. Some institutions, like Ibrahim Cardiac Hospital, may offer specific package deals.
- Government Initiatives: The government has been working to regulate prices of medical devices, which may make pacemakers more affordable.
- Health Insurance: If you have health insurance, check your policy to see what portion of the cost is covered.
Disclaimer: The prices mentioned are approximate and are subject to change. It is essential to consult with a qualified cardiologist and the specific hospital to get a personalized and accurate cost estimate for your situation.
ABBOTT Pacemaker Price List:
| SL | Model Name | Type | DGDA Approve price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | Endurity Core PM-1152 | Single Chamber | BDT- 1,45,000.00 |
| 02 | ENDURITY MRI PM-1172 | Single Chamber | BDT- 1,45,000.00 |
| 03 | Endurity Core PM-2152 | Dual Chamber | BDT- 2,30,000.00 |
| 04 | Endurity MRI PM-2172 | Dual Chamber | BDT- 2,90,000.00 |
| 05 | ASSURITY MRI PM-2272 | Dual Chamber | BDT- 3,35,000.00 |