What Is a Total Hip Replacement?
Total hip replacement (arthroplasty) involves replacing a damaged hip joint with an artificial implant. It's one of the most successful surgeries in medicine for restoring mobility and eliminating chronic pain.
When Is It Ordered?
Doctors typically order this test for: severe hip arthritis, hip fracture, avascular necrosis, or failed conservative treatment for hip pain.
How Long Does It Take?
1-2 hours surgery, 1-3 day hospital stay.
How to Prepare
Pre-surgical testing, physical therapy consultation, stop certain medications. Plan for 4-6 weeks of recovery.
How to Save on a Hip Replacement
- Get quotes from multiple hospitals. Price differences of $20,000+ for the same surgery are common in the same metro area.
- Ask for the "bundled" or "package" price that includes surgeon, anesthesiologist, facility, implants, and recovery.
- Consider ambulatory surgery centers for eligible cases — same surgeons, dramatically lower facility fees.
- Medical tourism within the US: Some patients travel to lower-cost regions and still save thousands even after travel expenses.
- Negotiate payment terms. Many hospitals offer 30-50% discounts for upfront cash payment, plus interest-free payment plans.
Compare Hip Replacement Prices Near You — — Live!
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Understanding the Cost Breakdown
| Price Type | Amount | Who Pays This |
|---|---|---|
| Medicare rate (facility) | $1,275 | Medicare beneficiaries (65+, disabled) |
| Low cash/negotiated | $14,866 | Self-pay with negotiation |
| Typical price | $34,870 | Average insured patient |
| High end | $49,555 | Out-of-network or no negotiation |
| Gross charge (sticker) | $193,721 | The "rack rate" nobody should pay |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Hip Replacement cost without insurance?
Without insurance, a Hip Replacement typically costs between $14,866 and $49,555, depending on your location and facility. The wide range exists because hospitals set their own prices — there's no standard rate. Always ask for the "self-pay" or "cash pay" price, which is often significantly lower than the listed price.
Why is there such a big price difference between hospitals?
Hospital pricing in the US has historically been opaque. Prices vary based on location (urban vs. rural), facility type (academic medical center vs. community hospital), negotiated insurance rates, and how much the hospital can charge. The same Hip Replacement performed with the same equipment can cost 5-10x more at one facility vs. another in the same city.
What does Medicare pay for a Hip Replacement?
Medicare pays $1,275 for a Hip Replacement (facility rate). This isn't the "true cost" of the procedure — it's the rate the federal government has negotiated as the largest payer in America. Hospitals claim they lose money at Medicare rates and make up the difference by charging more to private insurance and uninsured patients. The actual cost is likely somewhere between Medicare's rate and what hospitals charge.
Does insurance cover a Hip Replacement?
Most insurance plans cover a Hip Replacement when it's medically necessary (ordered by a doctor for a valid clinical reason). However, you may still owe a copay, coinsurance, or need to meet your deductible first. Always check with your insurance before the procedure and get pre-authorization if required.
How can I find the cheapest Hip Replacement near me?
Call 3-5 facilities in your area and ask for their "cash pay" or "self-pay" rate for CPT code 27130. Compare hospital outpatient departments with ambulatory surgery centers and independent clinics. We're building a comparison tool that will make this easier — sign up above to get notified.