Health care prices in the United States vary widely, even the negotiated (or contracted) rate between an insurance company and a healthcare provider. Always get multiple estimates for non-emergent care. This applies even for those with insurance because you may have a deductible.
Below are some examples. Note that what you actually pay also depends on your deductible and out-of-pocket maximum. If you’ve met your deductible, you may only be paying a percentage of the costs, and if you’ve met your out-of-pocket limit for the year, you may not pay anything at all.
- An ultrasound at a hospital might cost $500 (the negotiated rate). But an an outpatient diagnostic center, the same test can be $300.
- A generic medication through your insurance might have a co-pay of $30/month, but only cost $20 through GoodRx.
- A heart monitor designed to be worn over multiple days was $600 if through your insurance company, but $400 if you paid them directly (unfortunately paying them directly means the $400 will not count towards your deductible).
- A simple lab test drawn at a doctor’s office can be $300, but only $50 through LabCorp.
- A hospital affiliated primary care doctor may charge $450 for the first visit, while an independent PCP may only charge $175 for the first visit.
Bottom line: ask around and ask what the cash price would be if you paid them directly. ALWAYS ask what something costs, even if your doctor doesn’t know. A 30 minute call can save you $200 or more.
