What Is a Ultrasound Abdomen (Complete)?
A complete abdominal ultrasound creates images of the liver, gallbladder, kidneys, pancreas, and spleen using sound waves. No radiation involved.
When Is It Ordered?
Doctors typically order this test for: abdominal pain, gallstones, liver disease, kidney problems, or abnormal blood tests.
How Long Does It Take?
20-30 minutes.
How to Prepare
Fast for 8-12 hours before the exam to ensure the gallbladder is full.
How to Save on a Abdominal Ultrasound
- Independent imaging or women's health clinics often charge 40-60% less than hospital-based ultrasound.
- Ask for the cash price — ultrasound is already one of the cheapest imaging modalities, and self-pay rates can be very reasonable.
- OB/GYN offices with in-office ultrasound often charge less than hospital imaging departments.
Compare Abdominal Ultrasound Prices Near You — — Live!
We're building a tool to compare real abdominal ultrasound prices at hospitals near your zip code.
Understanding the Cost Breakdown
| Price Type | Amount | Who Pays This |
|---|---|---|
| Medicare rate (facility) | $58 | Medicare beneficiaries (65+, disabled) |
| Medicare rate (non-facility) | $140 | Outpatient/office setting |
| Low cash/negotiated | $242 | Self-pay with negotiation |
| Typical price | $387 | Average insured patient |
| High end | $805 | Out-of-network or no negotiation |
| Gross charge (sticker) | $3,227 | The "rack rate" nobody should pay |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Abdominal Ultrasound cost without insurance?
Without insurance, a Abdominal Ultrasound typically costs between $242 and $805, 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 Abdominal Ultrasound 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 Abdominal Ultrasound?
Medicare pays $58 for a Abdominal Ultrasound (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 Abdominal Ultrasound?
Most insurance plans cover a Abdominal Ultrasound 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 Abdominal Ultrasound near me?
Call 3-5 facilities in your area and ask for their "cash pay" or "self-pay" rate for CPT code 76700. Independent imaging centers are almost always cheaper than hospital-based imaging departments. We're building a comparison tool that will make this easier — sign up above to get notified.