How Much Does an Ultrasound Cost?

What is an ultrasound?

An ultrasound, also known as a sonogram, is a noninvasive imaging technology that uses high-frequency sound waves for deep-tissue imaging. It allows providers to get a view of a patient's internal organs, and evaluate their function. Ultrasounds can measure organ size, detect masses and blockages, evaluate fetal growth, or identify other internal conditions.

What's the average cost of an ultrasound?

The cost of an ultrasound scan varies; ultrasound test costs can differ greatly from place to place. However, the average cost of an ultrasound is around $380, but can go as high as $1,000 depending on the type of procedure you have.

What determines the cost of an ultrasound?

One of the major determinants for the cost of an ultrasound is the type of the ultrasound exam itself. Ultrasounds generally fall into one of two categories — diagnostic or therapeutic. Sonography cost also can vary depending on the city, state, and payment options. Diagnostic ultrasounds are typically more expensive than therapeutic ultrasounds, and ultrasound scan prices at hospitals run higher than they do at private outpatient facilities. 

How do ultrasounds work?

An ultrasound emits high-frequency sound waves into the body, reflecting organs, tissues, or fluids (depending on what is being imaged) into a receiver known as a transducer, to create an image. 

What can an ultrasound detect?

While the most well-known use for an ultrasound is to detect pregnancy and monitor fetal development, ultrasounds have a wide array of other uses. An ultrasound can detect other conditions and abnormalities, and provide additional information about existing problems.

The following are common examples of what an ultrasound is used to detect:

• Breasts lumps & thyroid gland abnormalities
• Early pregnancy (including how far along you are)
• Fetal growth abnormalities and fetal wellbeing
• Ovarian cysts
• Uterine, fallopian, and vaginal problems
• Vulval & urinary issues, including infertility investigations
• Brain & head, including brain injury
• Blood vessels, aneurysms, and AVMs (arteriovenous malformations)
• Breast cancer/lesions and tumors

How long does an ultrasound take?

An ultrasound scan can take between 10 and 60 minutes, depending on the area being examined.

Where can I get an ultrasound?

You can go to Tripment.com to find the closest diagnostic imaging center near you! 

What are the risks associated with an ultrasound?

There are no known risks associated with ultrasounds, since they do expose the patient to radiation. 

Why would a doctor order an ultrasound?

A doctor may order an ultrasound to evaluate or diagnose the following conditions:

• Bladder function, bladder wall thickening, or presence of sludge or gas.
• End-stage renal disease with acute urinary retention.
• Obstructive voiding syndrome in a patient with a history of previous prostatic resection, prior pelvic surgery, or previous radiation to the pelvis.
• Acute intermittent porphyria with acute urinary retention (benign EIP).
• Bladder tumors, especially urothelial carcinoma.
• Hematuria, hemoglobinuria, or proteinuria in patients with acute urinary
• Renal colic.
• Urothelial carcinoma.
• Hematuria in a child or adolescent (renal dysfunction, pyelonephritis, ureteral diverticulum, tumor).
• Pregnancy with absent or intermittent fetal heart tones in the second or third trimester.
• Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection in the immunocompromised patient: nausea, vomiting, dehydration.
• Intra-abdominal infection or hemorrhage with peritonitis (renal failure, shock).

Does health insurance cover an ultrasound?

In the U.S., an ultrasound is usually covered for patients who are 18 years old and older, but exact coverage differs between insurance plans. Most plans have detailed coverage brochures available online that describe exactly what they do and do not cover. Patients can check their diagnostic testing coverage to see if an ultrasound is included. Alternatively, patients can call their insurers directly to confirm the extent of their coverage.

How do I save money on ultrasound costs?

Ultrasound costs can be prohibitively high, when paying out-of-pocket, and even through some insurance plans. Ultrasounds are often higher with insurance due to plans with high deductibles. The best way to save on diagnostic imaging is to visit Tripment.com, where you will find the lowest ultrasound prices available near you.

Where can I find an ultrasound near me?

The fastest and easiest way to find an ultrasound clinic near you is to visit Tripment Health, where you can find a selection of diagnostic imaging facilities close to you at an affordable price. 

It's important to remember that you cannot get an ultrasound without a referral — Tripment.com gives you access to qualified providers that can provide you with an ultrasound referral. Soon, you'll be on your way to the closest low-cost ultrasound clinics near you, without having to worry about insurance!