In this article, we want to offer an overview of the cost of common medical procedures in the US. More importantly, are these tests always necessary, and what might be some alternatives?
For our digital nomad patients, we often think outside of the box to find clinically sound and affordable solutions.
Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy is an endoscopy of the colon. Another similar test might be an upper GI endoscopy to examine the stomach or esophagus.
The cost of such a procedure is often in the $1,000 range, but it can be anywhere from $700 to $2,000.
The minor complications might be bleeding or pain. But more serious complications, such as a tear in the colon or esophagus, are possible.
Alternatives to colonoscopy are stool-based studies to screen for cancer. Depending on a person’s risk factors, these less invasive tests might suffice.
Breast Biopsy
Breast masses are common, and fortunately, most are benign. When they look suspicious on a mammogram or ultrasound, a breast biopsy is needed.
In the US, such a biopsy and the analysis by a pathologist will cost around $4,500. The procedure would include removing the mass or cyst.
Prostate Biopsy
Like breast masses or suspicious imaging, a prostate may need multiple biopsies. It’s not common for anything to be removed from the prostate; therefore, these prices are only for the biopsy.
The cost is around $2,500 for multiple biopsies to be performed on a prostate suspected of malignancy.
EKG
We order many EKGs, and especially in a virtual practice, it’s good to know where to go to have this done.
Though some watches and personal health devices can give a patient an electrical readout of the heart, these are often inadequate.
An EKG can cost anywhere from $25 to $50 and might have a service fee of $50, which may be called a facility fee. Many imaging centers and some laboratories will perform an EKG.
For more resources on where to go for any testing or treatments, check out the resources page here at Digital Nomad Health.