This program specifically addresses itself to DFW kidney transplant patients on a waiting list and undergoing kidney dialysis until an organ becomes available.
In certain cases kidney transplant patients are eligible for Medicare financial assistance if they make their dialysis co-payments in a timely manner.
If the patient makes the co-pays (approximately $50.00 per dialysis) the local DFW hospital providing the patient's care is eligible for Medicare reimbursement worth approximately $10,000.00 in a year's time.
Some patients cannot afford the dialysis co-pays. Some patients have to make the unenviable choice to stretch their household budget or to receive their dialysis treatments.
If the patient cannot make the co-pay the local hospital loses its right to Medicare reimbursement for the patient's treatment. The hospital is not allowed to make the co-pays for the patient since that is considered 'buying' business under federal Medicare regulations.
As an unaffiliated charity, CODA can make those co-payments on behalf of the patient. This results in benefits to both the patient and the hospital.
The patient's dialysis co-pays are covered by CODA and he or she can spend any savings on other household necessities.
The local DFW hospital benefits because it then becomes eligible for Medicare reimbursement for which it would otherwise have to dun the patient, or else write off.
CODA is in the process of attempting to raise funds for this purpose. A $600.00 financial contribution will get the program going. Arrangements will be made with Children's Hospital of Dallas for the first program once the money is raised.
CODA intends to expand the program to all transplant hospitals in the DFW area dealing with kidney transplantation.
Patients will be helped in order of their priority on the kidney waiting list. The sickest person on a hospital's waiting list will receive CODA's help first.
This is a program that will benefit patients, local hospitals, and the taxpayers.
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