I’m sorry to hear about your amputation. As an amputee myself, as well as a personal injury attorney, I understand the challenges facing new amputees. As an upper-extremity amputee, you basically have four options: do not use a prosthesis, use a passive prosthesis, use a functional prosthesis, or do some variety of the above.
Functional prostheses are devices that can help an amputee perform tasks, while a passive prosthesis normally exists only for cosmetic appearances and are not functional. Functional prostheses can be either powered by the body or powered electrically. Normally, body-powered devices are lighter, cheaper, and easier to repair, but can be difficult to use and may not look as good.
The good news is that you have more options today for a prosthesis than amputees have ever had before. The kind that you will get depends a lot on where your amputation is, what you will need the prosthesis for, your willingness to learn to use new technology, and how you plan on paying for the device.
However, the odds are good that you will not have to pay for the device out-of-pocket. If you have insurance, your insurance company should provide coverage, or you may be able to get on a plan. In some cases, amputees are eligible for Medicaid or Medicare to cover the cost of the device. Finally, if your amputation was caused by someone else’s negligence, such as through an accident or medical malpractice, you may be able to file a lawsuit and receive compensation, which can help to offset your medical expenses.
If you have suffered an amputation because of another party’s negligence, call me, Conal Doyle, Amputation Attorney, at 310-385-0567. I can help. Call today to learn more or to schedule a free consultation on your case.