Connecticut-Colonoscopy Pricing

[Anthony]

My wife and I have an HSA plan, and she needs a colonoscopy. The CT hospital we’re associated with quoted us an extremely high price that exceeds our deductible. From our research, their prices are among the highest in the country. We’re hoping someone can recommend a more affordable option, maybe a clinic or hospital. We’re just trying to explore alternatives, and any recommendations would be greatly appreciated.

[Gabriel4]

Do an online research, it often shows things should be cheaper than they actually are. A colonoscopy will likely cost at least your deductible and possibly more. Keep in mind that if you haven’t met your deductible, the hospital won’t get paid by insurance until you do. What’s the estimate you received? Does it include both facility and provider fees?

[Maverick]

@Gabriel4

Do an online research, it often shows things should be cheaper than they actually are. A colonoscopy will likely cost at least your deductible and possibly more. Keep in mind that if you haven’t met your deductible, the hospital won’t get paid by insurance until you do. What’s the estimate you received? Does it include both facility and provider fees?

I feel like “the internet” gets its prices for medical procedures from the rates of a small clinic in Dunseith, ND, where the owner is a lifelong personal friend. A colonoscopy at a New England hospital an expensive provider in a pricey area doesn’t surprise me at all if it exceeds the original poster’s deductible.

[Anthony]

@Maverick

I feel like “the internet” gets its prices for medical procedures from the rates of a small clinic in Dunseith, ND, where the owner is a lifelong personal friend. A colonoscopy at a New England hospital an expensive provider in a pricey area doesn’t surprise me at all if it exceeds the original poster’s deductible.

Thanks! I thought so. Would it be worth it to shop around in other states?

[Anthony]

@Gabriel4

Do an online research, it often shows things should be cheaper than they actually are. A colonoscopy will likely cost at least your deductible and possibly more. Keep in mind that if you haven’t met your deductible, the hospital won’t get paid by insurance until you do. What’s the estimate you received? Does it include both facility and provider fees?

Thanks. We were quoted around 6k for the whole thing (our deductible is 5k).

[Gabriel4]

@Anthony

Thanks! I thought so. Would it be worth it to shop around in other states?

If you go too far to find a better price, you’ll likely end up spending more on travel, hotels, and other expenses. You definitely don’t want to prep in a hotel bathroom or be stuck in a car for a long time after prepping!

[Gabriel4]

@Anthony

Thanks. We were quoted around 6k for the whole thing (our deductible is 5k).

That sounds accurate based on my experience. What does your research say? Are there any websites you used that only cover the provider or hospital side, or self-pay options?

[Willow2]

Colonoscopy procedures are usually done at outpatient surgical centers, so there’s not much room for shopping around. From my experience and what I’ve seen on finance forums, the cost is usually around $4,000 after insurance adjustments. All the smaller costs can really add up. Besides the procedure, you’ll meet with a surgeon before and possibly after, depending on the results. A nurse will also screen you a few days before, and you may need to have blood drawn for lab tests. There are also costs for anesthesia and pathology, and sometimes they send a polyp to another lab for a second opinion.

[Frederick]

The cost is between $4,000 and $6,000. If she needs one, I would make it work don’t hesitate. It’s not inexpensive, as you’re in a room with about four to six people, including a surgeon and an anesthesiologist. While it’s not at a hospital, it’s usually at a surgical center, so keep that in mind.