How Much Does A Defibrillator Cost?

Anyone who is familiar with the defibrillator will likely tell you that this equipment can be considered priceless under extreme circumstances. For those who aren’t interested in the concept of the invaluable, the average monetary defibrillator cost is usually between $1,500 and $2,000.

The device is commonly used to treat several life threatening heart dysfunctions through the use of an electric shock to the heart. A cardiac arrhythmia (or dysrhythmia) is an irregular heartbeat due to abnormal electrical activity. There are many types of arrhythmias with effects that vary from being insignificant, to deadly. If muscle contractions become uncoordinated, the heart will fail to register a full beat. This condition is known as ventricular fibrillation and often leads to full cardiac arrest. Another potentially fatal situation is known as ventricular tachycardia. This situation arises when the heart beats too fast from the ventricles. A defibrillator can effectively treat all of the previously mentioned ailments by essentially “resetting” the heart with a large jolt of electricity, giving the organ the chance to re-establish a normal beating pattern. The cost of a defibrillator may be unavoidable in some situations. Those in this type of circumstance should investigate medical insurance and other funding options (such as state programs).

Portable Defibrillator Cost

More than one type of defibrillator can be considered portable. The automatic external defibrillator can be taken to different locations and can be used by almost anyone thanks to an automated assessment system. Portable defibrillator cost can be avoided in some cases, as policy is beginning to mandate the presence of an AED in most public locations. Another example of a portable defibrillator is the life vest style of the apparatus. This form is as portable as one can imagine, since it is constantly worn against the skin in order to keep electrode contact. The cost of a defibrillator like this can be a fair trade for the avoidance of surgery and preservation of life.

Automatic External Defibrillator Cost

An automatic external defibrillator is a portable device that can assess and treat serious heart anomalies. This piece of equipment is very easy to use, and can be operated with little to no training. The value of the apparatus is found in its performance, but automatic external defibrillator cost is relatively reasonable under any circumstances. At $1,500 to $2,500 the AED is relatively reasonable for a device with such efficiency at saving lives. AED’s are becoming standard in many public locations, so the need to have one with you at all times may not be great. The defibrillator price for this type is substantial enough to give pause for consideration before purchasing, especially if most of your time is spent in areas where and AED is already available.

Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator Cost

In situations where a person’s heart is regularly at high risk for cardiac arrest, consideration may be made for receiving an implantable defibrillator. This device is surgically implanted into the upper chest, while a wire is fed from the ICD, through a vein, and into a chamber of the heart. The ICD performs a trio of functions, acting as a pacemaker when needed, recording data about the heart’s activity, and delivering large amounts of electricity to the heart when it is experiencing a serious arrhythmia or other abnormality. Implantable cardioverter defibrillator cost is very high due to the medical procedure required to station it within the body. The operation is usually performed with local anesthetic, as the patient’s responses are important for calibrating the instrument. When considering the cost of a defibrillator implant, be sure to include the extra fees associated with being anesthetized in a hospital setting. In total, implantable cardioverter defibrillator cost can reach over $60,000.

Life Vest Defibrillator Cost

In some situations, the implantation of an ICD is not the best choice for the patient, and may even be harmful. A life vest style of defibrillator is a valid option for most patients who need the protection of a permanent defibrillator but cannot or do not want to have the necessary surgery. This type of device is constantly strapped to your chest, providing a consistent connection between the electrodes and the skin. If abnormal activity is detected, the vest will sound an alarm. If no action is taken in 30-50 seconds, a strong shock will be delivered to the heart through the electrodes. Life vest defibrillator cost is comparable to the cost for an implantation, but it can also be leased for approximately $3,000 per month.