Ultrasound Scan Cost Factors

By HealthPriceCompare - Jul 12, 2023

An ultrasound, also known as ultrasonography, is a medical imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of the internal structures of the body. It is commonly used for diagnostic purposes to visualize organs, tissues, and blood flow without the need for invasive procedures or ionizing radiation.

Ultrasound imaging is widely used in various medical fields, including obstetrics and gynecology, cardiology, gastroenterology, urology, and musculoskeletal imaging. It is primarily used to evaluate and diagnose conditions such as pregnancy, organ abnormalities, tumors, gallstones, kidney stones, vascular diseases, and more.

In addition to static images, ultrasound can also provide dynamic information, such as real-time video recordings of the moving structures within the body. This enables physicians to assess the function of organs, blood flow patterns, and detect any abnormalities.

Ultrasound imaging is considered safe and non-invasive, with no known risks or side effects. It is particularly useful for examining soft tissues and organs that may not be well visualized with other imaging modalities, such as X-rays or computed tomography scans.

The cost of an ultrasound can vary depending on several factors, including the type of ultrasound, the facility or healthcare provider, the geographical location, and whether you have insurance coverage. The cost of an ultrasound of the abdomen, one of the most frequently performed ultrasound procedures, can vary significantly. Hospital standard charges data indicate that contracted prices can range from $10 in West Virginia to $2,838 in Texas. Discounted cash prices similarly range from $23 in California to $4,685 in Florida.

However, it's important to note that insurance coverage can significantly affect the out-of-pocket cost of an ultrasound. If you have insurance, it may cover the entire cost of the procedure but more likely you will still have to pay a co-payment or co-insurance. For patients who participate in a high-deductible health plan, you will likely be responsible for the entire amount so it's important for you to know your insurance plan's in-network contracted prices.

The cost of an ultrasound can also vary depending on the specific purpose or area of the body being examined. For example, an abdominal ultrasound may have a different cost than a pelvic ultrasound or a prenatal ultrasound. The type of ultrasound similarly matters with an invasive ultrasound is typically more expensive than a non-invasive procedure.

Finally, the location where the ultrasound is being performed matters. Ultrasounds that are performed in rural areas are often less expensive than those performed in urban areas.

Here is a further breakdown of the costs you can expect to pay for some of the most frequently performed ultrasounds:

Ultrasound scan of pelvis: Contracted prices can range from $10 in West Virginia to $3,375 in Texas. Discounted cash prices similarly range from $20 in California to $3,755 in South Carolina.

Ultrasound scan of uterus, ovaries, tubes, cervix and pelvic area: Contracted prices can range from $26 in North Dakota to $2,215 in Texas. Discounted cash prices can range from $13 in Indiana to $2,754 in Massachusetts.

Ultrasound scan of head and neck soft tissue: Contracted prices can range from $16 in the District of Columbia to $4,036 in Massachusetts. Discounted cash prices can range from $16 in California to $3,248 in Massachusetts.

If you are concerned about the cost of an ultrasound, be sure to visit HealthPriceCompare to compare providers based on the prices contracted by your insurance plan in addition to the discounted cash prices they may offer.