A lung transplant can be a long and challenging process for your family. At Texas Children’s, we understand that the more you know and can plan for what is next, the less stressful the process becomes. That’s why from evaluation through life after transplant, we provide you with information to guide you and support your family.
What to Expect: FAQs
Once your child is on the transplant wait list, your family should live within 1 hour of the hospital and should remain for at least 3 months after transplant or until clinical stability is established.
Your social worker can help you research lodging options. Many families choose to stay at the Houston-area Ronald McDonald House which is about 1 mile from the Texas Medical Center. The Ronald McDonald House offers a home-away-from-home for families of children undergoing treatment at the Texas Medical Center and provides affordable rates and transportation to the medical center.
Another option for lung transplant patients and their families is Nora’s Home. Nora’s Home offers affordable lodging for pre-transplant and post-transplant patients who travel to any of the Texas Medical Center transplant centers. Short-term lease apartments within 2 to 3 miles of the hospital are also available.
Check with your insurance plan for details about relocation coverage — some insurance plans provide financial assistance, some do not. Contact your insurance provider to determine what supplies (such as oxygen and feeding supplies) will be covered upon relocation.
If you’re on Medicaid, the social worker may be of assistance in arranging alternative housing as well. Many area hotels and the Ronald McDonald House participate in Texas Medicaid’s housing program. Medicaid may help cover the cost if you need a hotel room while the transplant candidate is in the intensive care unit, after release from the hospital, if it is medically necessary for you to stay in the area.
