UPDATE:
Insurance company approves liver transplant after first denying $800K surgery, family says
but there is a risk that the cancer will recur after a liver transplant. If there is a comorbid condition such as cancer in the arteries (angiosarcoma or ELSD), or some other infection that is still present (even a dental infection), the UNOS will not register a person for a transplant. The theory is that there is a low probability of success after 5 years, and the second is it takes away a potential liver for a more survivable candidate. It is disappointing if the potential recipient is told that he or she is not eligible for transplant, but it is good system overall, in my opinion.
Yes, 800k is expensive as hell, but the actuaries long ago figured that into the premium. On average there are 4 liver transplants per 100k people, our deductible is X, our co-pay is Y, so we charge Z for a male aged 40, etc etc.
The insurance company took the money, so they takes their chances.
That’s such good news! I don’t even know these people, but after reading his story, I feel like rejoicing that at very least, he will be getting his liver transplant now.
Prayers for recovery, so he can spend more time with his wife and new baby. This reminds me that each dawning day is a gift! Yes, I do require frequent reminding.