The number of patients who have gotten hip replacements for their ailing hip joints has had steadily increased over the years -- with thousands of men and women going through the surgery each year, according to a recent health survey. Not all individuals are able to afford such treatment because it is still very expensive, although with the help of health insurance others might be able to go through with the operation. Most doctors may advise patients to press on with their hip replacement operation because it may lessen damage to the already diseased joint - this will decrease the amount of money spent for the operation and recuperation. The failure of the hip implant may also rise -- it being one of the main complaints of patients filing a DePuy Pinnacle hip device lawsuit.

There are many instances when the person would end up having multiple operations to even restore the mobility of the joint. Health insurance, whether it is private or Medicare, may ease the burden of paying hospital fees. If they are able to meet the requirements, men and women who are 65 years old and above may be able to have full benefits from Medicare. Although with the recent changes with Medicare and the introduction of ObamaCare, many are unsure if they will still be covered by the health insurance. This may be hard for those who are just relying on their Medicare for their health needs especially when they are planning to have a hip replacement surgery.

The potential cost of the hip operation may vary for each patient depending on various factors such as the coverage of the insurance plan and the type of operation that needs to be performed. Some insurance company may cover the whole expenses including certain days of recuperation while others do not. Thus, it is best to ask the Medicare or any insurance company of their coverage to know how much money will be taken out straight from the pocket. The hospital and professional fees of the surgeon and anaesthesiologists may also be covered when they accept Medicare.

The full retirement age is no longer 65 years old but Social Security suggests that qualified applicants may need to sign up before their 65th birthday. They may start three months before they turn 65 years old. This may mean that men and women who may need to have a hip replacement may have to wait for the right age before availing the services.