How Much Does Feeding Tube Food Cost?
Feeding tubes are a medical device used to provide nutrition to individuals who have difficulty eating or swallowing. They are commonly used in hospitals, nursing homes, and in-home care settings. There are various types of feeding tubes, including nasogastric tubes, gastrostomy tubes, and jejunostomy tubes, each with their own benefits and drawbacks.
One of the main concerns for individuals who require feeding tubes is the cost of the tube feeding formula. The cost can vary depending on the type of formula, the amount needed, and the frequency of use. While some insurance plans may cover the cost of feeding tube formula, others may not, leaving individuals and their families to bear the financial burden.
In this article, we will explore the cost of feeding tube formula and the factors that can impact the cost. We will also discuss ways to reduce the cost of feeding tube formula and resources available to help individuals and families manage the financial burden of feeding tube therapy.
Factors that Affect Feeding Tube Food Cost
Type of Feeding Tube Food
The type of feeding tube food can affect the cost. There are two main types of feeding tube food: standard formulas and specialty formulas. Standard formulas are cheaper and can be used for most people. Specialty formulas, on the other hand, are more expensive and are designed for people with specific medical conditions. For example, a person with kidney disease may require a low-protein formula, which can be more expensive than a standard formula.
Frequency of Feeding
The frequency of feeding can also affect the cost. The more often a person needs to be fed, the more feeding tube food they will require, and the more expensive it will be. Some people may require continuous feeding, while others may only need to be fed a few times a day. The frequency of feeding will depend on the person’s medical condition and nutritional needs.
Duration of Feeding
The duration of feeding can also affect the cost. Some people may only need to be fed for a short period of time, while others may require feeding tube food for the rest of their lives. The longer a person requires feeding tube food, the more expensive it will be. The duration of feeding will depend on the person’s medical condition and nutritional needs.
Insurance Coverage
Insurance coverage can also affect the cost of feeding tube food. Medicare and Medicaid typically cover the cost of feeding tube food for people who meet certain criteria. Private insurance may also cover the cost, but it will depend on the person’s policy. Some insurance policies may require a co-pay or deductible, which can increase the cost of feeding tube food.
Average Cost of Feeding Tube Food
Feeding tubes are an important tool for providing nutrition to people who are unable to eat normally. However, the cost of feeding tube food can be significant, especially for those who require long-term use of the tube. In this section, we will discuss the average cost of feeding tube food and provide information on the costs associated with hospital and at-home use of feeding tubes.
Hospital Costs
For patients who require feeding tubes during a hospital stay, the cost of feeding tube food is generally covered by the hospital. However, the cost of the feeding tube itself and any associated medical procedures can be significant. According to a study published in PubMed, the average daily cost of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube feeding was $87.21, with an estimated cost of $31,832 for one year of feeding via PEG. The main components of this cost include the initial PEG procedure (29.4%), enteral formula (24.9%), and hospital charges for major complications (33.4%).
At-home Costs
For patients who require feeding tubes outside of a hospital setting, the cost of feeding tube food can vary depending on a number of factors. The cost of the feeding tube itself, as well as any associated medical procedures, will need to be covered by the patient or their insurance. Additionally, the cost of the feeding tube food will need to be factored in.
There are a few options for feeding tube food, including pre-formulated products and homemade blenderized foods. Pre-formulated products can be expensive and often contain unhealthy ingredients. Homemade blenderized foods can be a more affordable and healthier option, but require more time and effort to prepare.
According to a blog post on Essense of Life, pre-formulated products can contain allergens like corn, milk, and soy, and are full of unhealthy ingredients like corn syrup, maltodextrin, and sugar. Homemade blenderized foods, on the other hand, can be made with fresh, whole foods and tailored to the individual’s specific nutritional needs. However, blenderized foods require a blender and other equipment, as well as the time and effort to prepare.
Overall, the cost of feeding tube food can be significant, especially for those who require long-term use of the tube. Patients should discuss their options with their healthcare provider and insurance company to determine the most affordable and effective option for their specific needs.
Tips for Reducing Feeding Tube Food Cost
Comparison Shopping
One of the easiest ways to reduce feeding tube food costs is to compare prices from different suppliers. This can be done by visiting different websites or calling different suppliers. It is also important to compare shipping costs and delivery times, as these can vary depending on the supplier.
Another way to save money is to look for discounts and promotions. Some suppliers offer discounts for first-time customers or for bulk purchases. It is also important to check for coupon codes or promo codes that can be applied at checkout.
Bulk Purchasing
Buying feeding tube food in bulk can also help reduce costs. Many suppliers offer discounts for bulk purchases, which can be a great way to save money in the long run. However, it is important to make sure that the food will not expire before it can be used.
Another option is to split bulk purchases with other people who use feeding tube food. This can help reduce costs and prevent food waste.
Insurance Negotiation
If the person using the feeding tube has insurance, it may be possible to negotiate with the insurance company to cover the cost of the feeding tube food. This can be done by providing documentation from a healthcare provider that shows that the food is medically necessary.
It is also important to check with the insurance company to see if they have a preferred supplier for feeding tube food. Using a preferred supplier can sometimes result in lower costs or better coverage.
Resources for Help with Feeding Tube Formula
There are some charities, facebook groups, and even local government agencies that can help with the cost of feeding tube formula.
Charities
The best place to find charitable organizations that help with medical costs is to check with your hospital social worker. Some doctors offices also team up with social workers, so feel free to ask if your doctor has one that they prefer.
Social Workers can get you all the information to apply for and receive benefits and grants that can be used for medical supplies and formula.
Facebook Groups
Not only are Facebook groups great for having a community of like minded people, there are a lot of them out there for specific instances about feeding tubes. For instance, I joined several that are for Parents of Children with Feeding Tubes, Kids with Esophageal Atresia, Blenderized Food for Feeding tubes, and also Feeding Therapy type groups.
These groups have tons of practical information and tips for handling feeding tube daily life, and most also let their member’s post when they have supplies and formula that they would like to donate.
I wouldn’t recommend using these groups for all your formula needs, but they can be used when you run out before your next monthly delivery or if you want to try out a formula before committing to it.
Local & County Government Agencies
If you have a child with a feeding tube that is under the age of 5, then you need to apply for WIC. This program is designed to help expectant mothers and children up to the age of 5 years old. (In some cases they can help with older children as well, so be sure to ask!)
When my daughter was first prescribed Pediasure, we found out that WIC would cover the full cost of her food. This was amazing because Pediasure can get quite expensive. When she later changed to Harvest Blend Pediasure, WIC was able to cover that as well even though they had to special order it.
The income requirements for WIC are much higher than traditional Food Stamps or EBT, so even if you don’t qualify for other assistance, it is worth checking it out. Worst case scenario, they say you don’t qualify, but lots of people have told me they qualified and were totally surprised.
For more helpful information about feeding tubes, check out “How long can you use a tube feeding bag?” and “DME Supplies (What you should get and what to do if you need more!)“
