How Much Does An Echocardiogram Cost?

Echocardiograms, or heart ultrasounds, are becoming more and more popular. These tests are relatively simple to perform and are completely non-invasive. And the amount of information that the doctor is able to learn about your heart from an echo is invaluable. It’s because of these things that make it a popular medical exam among doctors.

Average Cost Of An Echocardiogram

The actual cost of an echocardiogram varies greatly on where you have the echo done. For example, if you were to have the echo exam done in Alaska, there is a clinic there that charges $650 for and echocardiogram.  But if you were to travel to another clinic in the same state, the echocardiogram cost as much as $3,966 for the same procedure.

So if we were to take all the data we have available regarding the cost of an echocardiogram across the United States, we could come up with an average.

By doing so, we can confidently say that on average, the cost of an echocardiogram in the United States is approximately $1,500.  But the cost of a 2D echo could really fall anywhere between $1,000 and $3,000.

What Affects The Cost Of An Echocardiogram?

Some of the things that might affect the overall cost of a 2D echo are:

• The location where the echo is performed
• Whether or not you are covered by medical insurance
• Additonal services or equipment needed for the exam

An example of additional equipment used that could increase the cost of an echocardiogram is the use of a contrast agent.  A contrast agent, like Definity may be used if the cardiac sonographer is unable to see all of the structures of the heart during a normal exam. This agent requires an IV, which could possibly add to the total cost of an echocardiogram.

How You Can Save Money On The Cost Of An Echocardiogram

Many doctors offices and clinics are businesses.  And like most businesses, cash is king. If you want to try and save on the total cost of an echocardiogram, try asking the billing department for a discount if you pay cash up front.  By paying with cash up front, the clinic is guaranteed payment, which can often times be very difficult to make happen.

Ask in advance how much an echocardiogram will cost you.  Healthcare is a service that you are paying for, and there is nothing wrong with knowing how much your service is going to cost you.  Don’t wait until you get the bill in the mail.

This advice holds true for any medical exams you receive.  It’s important that you be your own advocate, know what you’re paying for and know how much it will cost.

Echo Test Cost: Final Thought

Do you have additional insight into what a 2D echo cost is? If you recently had an echo done please share in the comments below how much you paid as well as your location.  Your information will be invaluable to all of us.