According to the CDC, raising a child with cerebral palsy (CP) costs an average of $45,000 per year. Given that the average US household income is just $62,000, most families, even those with good insurance, will struggle to cover the support, medication, and equipment their child needs to live a happy and healthy life. To get a better understanding of the costs of cerebral palsy, let’s break down treatment into three parts.
Medications
On average, a person with cerebral palsy will require $5,000 worth of specialized medication per year. These medications range from seizure suppressants and pain relief to muscle relaxants and movement blockers. These medications are expensive on their own, and quickly pile up over the course of a single year. In a lifetime, the CDC estimates a total cost of $300,000 in medications alone.
Therapies
Starting therapy early is extremely important as it can mitigate the physical and cognitive impacts of cerebral palsy. However, therapies are often expensive and the lost wages from multiple, weekly appointments can make it difficult to maintain your job while also getting the care your child needs to establish their independence.
Specialized Equipment
A child with cerebral palsy may need crutches, a walker, or even a wheelchair to improve their mobility. Each of these can cost hundreds, if not thousands of dollars, which puts many parents in an extremely difficult position.
Parents may also need specialized chairs, bathroom equipment, or even something as simple as a special-needs swingset. Many parents don’t fully appreciate what equipment they need until they realize they don’t have it.
Similarly, parents should consider accessibility renovations. Children with cerebral palsy may struggle to use stairs, maneuver tight hallways, or use round doorknobs. Similarly, if your child needs a motorized wheelchair, they may need a vehicle with a lift or a ramp. It’s easy to see how ensuring your child’s comfort in their own home can turn into extensive renovations or even a search for a new house.
Securing Your Child’s Independence
A life care plan for a child with CP can cost tens of millions of dollars. If you’re unsure how you will cover your child’s expenses, we are here to help. Cerebral palsy is often the result of medical negligence during delivery or shortly after. If you fear your child’s condition was caused by medical malpractice, our attorneys can fight for the justice your family deserves.
If you’d like to schedule a free consultation with an experienced North Carolina birth injury attorney from Daniel, Holoman & Associates LLP, don’t hesitate to send us an email or call (866) 380-2281.