Need

In Minnesota, there are:

• Approximately 25,318 people with amputations (4.9 per 1,000 persons)
• Approximately 10,440 people with cerebral palsy (2 per 1,000 persons)
• An estimated 13,649 people who suffer a stroke each year (795,000 nationally)
• 61% of the population covered by employer-based plans; 7% covered under private insurance. 

 

Cost

Studies in other states have shown that the increase in premiums would be about 12 to 25 cents per

member per month. 

 

Insufficient coverage can increase long-term costs.  Without this type of care, many individuals will lead a

more sedentary lifestyle, which can result in countless secondary complications. 

 

• If someone suffers a heart attack due to PVD, costs can range from $75,000 to $200,000 for surgical

treatment and hospitalization.

• If a person develops knee or hip problems from being unable to walk correctly, resulting costs can

range from $80,000 to $150,000 over a lifetime, depending on the care needed.

• Crutch overuse can cause wrist, elbow, and shoulder problems.  The cost of surgery for carpal tunnel

averages $7,500 and range to $25,000 for shoulder surgery. 

 

 

Savings

• Appropriate private insurance coverage prevents the shifting of costs to the public sector. 
• This segment of the population (mostly people under 65) can continue to be contributing members of society instead of becoming dependent on government assistance. 
• For every dollar spent on rehabilitation - including orthotic and prosthetic care - there is a savings of more than $11 in disability benefits.

 

There are a variety of benefits found from prosthetic and orthotic use – some fiscal and some less measurable, such as increased:

• Quality of life
• Independence
• Mobility
• Functionality
• Activities of daily living