How Much Does a Ureteroscopy Cost?
A ureteroscopy refers to the medical procedure where the upper urinary tract is checked for irregularities. This process is also interchangeably known as a cystoscopy and is commonly done to look for and/or remove kidney stones.
The ureteroscopy process involves using a ureteroscope, which enters the urethra through the bladder and into one of the ureters. The ureteroscope is used to view the walls of the urinary tract to detect any abnormalities and break up some kidney stones if identified.
The procedure may be done solely to check for abnormalities, but most of the time, it involves removing kidney stones trapped in the lower part of the ureters
How much does a ureteroscopy cost?
Without any sort of insurance, the costs of a ureteroscopy can vary anywhere from $500 to as much as $3,000. The costs will depend on the treatment method, the technology being used, the specialist, the health of the patient and facility/hospital being used.
Consultant360.com says the procedure can cost $2,695 on average and has a 10 to 20 percent complication rate.
According to Medsolution.com, the cost of the entire ureteroscopy procedure when performed in the United States is around $2,700. This fee should cover the hospital stay.
Knighturology.com states the procedure can range anywhere from $600 to $1,100. However, if everything is paid in cash up front, this price can be as little as $300 to $530.
For those who have a health insurance plan, be sure to check with your provider as you should only be responsible for your co-pay and deductible. If you need a policy or are thinking about switching, eHealthInsurance.com lets you browse through hundreds of policies for free. If this test is ordered by a doctor and is deemed medically necessary, it should be covered under your health insurance without a question.
Ureteroscopy overview
During the procedure, commonly done by a urologist, a long, rigid ureteroscope is inserted through the bladder toward the kidney. Once inside, a small camera will be able to capture images and display the results for the doctor. To remove the kidney stone, it will be done either by using forceps, a laser or what’s known as a “basket,” a tool that’s able to grab the stone. If the stone is smaller, then it can be removed in one piece; however, it’s larger, then it may have to be broken up. Most urologists prefer to remove the stone via a laser.
This process is done under a general anesthesia and is considered an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home the same day. Unless there are other complications or abnormalities that need to be addressed, a hospital stay will not be required. Even so, a hospital stay shouldn’t last longer than 24 to 408 hours.
The procedure usually takes less than an hour.
What are the extra costs?
After the procedure, your doctor may recommend medication to help numb the burning sensation you may feel.
Tips to know:
Risks, according to WebMD, may include an injury to the ureter, urinary tract infection, bleeding or abnormal pain.
How can I save money?
Take advantage of your health insurance and get the most out of it; however, before making your appointment, make sure you talk with your health insurance company first to make sure you’re covered. You should only be responsible for your co-pay and deductibles, again, as long as medically necessary.
If you do not have an insurance policy, be sure to check with the doctor’s office or facility’s finance department to see if any cash discounts are available. Even if you cannot pay for the procedure up front, many are able to put you on a finance plan. If you can pay cash up front, you can usually haggle up to a 50% discount.
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