How much does an ultrasound cost?
How much does an ultrasound cost?
$200 – $600+ average cost (without insurance)
Average ultrasound cost
An ultrasound costs $200 to $600 on average without insurance, but prices range from as low as $100 to as high as $3,000 depending on the scan type. More complex scans of the heart or multiple abdominal organs take longer and cost more. The cost of ultrasound is higher at hospitals compared to at imaging centers or doctors' offices.
With insurance, your out-of-pocket cost for a medically necessary ultrasound may be as low as $0 to $50, depending on your plan, co-pay, and deductible.
| Procedure | Average cost (without insurance) |
Description |
|---|---|---|
| 3D / 4D ultrasound cost | $100 – $200 | Non-medical souvenir scan of baby for keepsake images or videos |
| Abdominal ultrasound cost | $200 – $1,000 | Images the liver, gallbladder, spleen, pancreas, and bile ducts |
| Breast ultrasound cost | $150 – $500 | Scans breast tissue; often paired with a mammogram |
| Heart ultrasound cost | $500 – $3,000 | Assesses heart structure and function |
| Kidney ultrasound cost | $150 – $500 | Checks kidneys for stones, cysts, or disease |
| Pelvic ultrasound cost | $100 – $600 | Views the uterus, ovaries, and bladder |
| Prenatal ultrasound cost | $200 – $400 | Monitors baby and pregnancy |
| Thyroid ultrasound cost | $200 – $600 | Examines thyroid gland for nodules |
| Transvaginal ultrasound cost | $250 – $600 | Internal view of female reproductive organs |
| Transrectal ultrasound cost | $250 – $600 | Internal rectum scan of the prostate in men |
| Doppler / vascular ultrasound | $150 – $700 | Evaluates blood flow in arteries and veins |
What affects the cost of an ultrasound?
The price of an ultrasound depends on several important factors:
Location: Urban and high-cost-of-living areas charge more, while rural centers tend to be less expensive.
Imaging technology: Most ultrasounds are standard 2D. If a provider suggests a medical 3D or 4D imaging for enhanced visuals and interactivity, expect a higher fee.
Scan detail and complexity: Specialized or advanced procedures, such as Doppler imaging or more comprehensive studies, have higher prices.
Facility type: Hospitals often charge higher prices than independent imaging centers or clinics due to greater overhead.
Interpretation and medical review: Additional charges may apply for a radiologist or physician to formally interpret the results and provide a report.
Extra services or timing needs: Fees can increase if you need same-day scheduling, a consultation before or after the scan, or other add-ons.
Insurance status: Insurance coverage, especially after a deductible, can greatly reduce out-of-pocket costs. However, the patient pays elective non-medical scans (like 3D / 4D keepsake scans) entirely.
What is an ultrasound?
An ultrasound is a diagnostic imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves to create pictures of organs, tissues, and other structures inside the body. This noninvasive test is sometimes called a sonogram or ultrasonography, and it allows healthcare providers to visualize internal anatomy without surgery or exposure to radiation.
What does an ultrasound show?
An ultrasound shows real-time images of soft tissues, blood flow, and moving organs, such as the heart beating or a fetus developing in the womb. It is commonly used to:
Monitor pregnancy and fetal health.
Diagnose causes of pain, swelling, or infection.
Examine organs like the liver, kidneys, bladder, or thyroid.
Detect cysts, tumors, or abnormalities.
Guide procedures such as needle biopsies.
Ultrasound FAQs
Does insurance cover ultrasounds?
Ultrasounds are only covered by insurance if medically necessary and ordered by a healthcare provider. Coverage can vary by plan, and some limit the number of prenatal ultrasounds. Non-medical keepsake scans like elective 3D/4D ultrasounds are not covered. Always check with the provider and insurer to confirm coverage for your specific situation.
Are ultrasounds safe?
Ultrasounds are considered very safe for medical use when performed by trained professionals. They use sound waves instead of radiation and have no known risks with routine diagnostic procedures.
Do urgent cares do ultrasounds?
Many urgent care centers offer ultrasounds, but not all. Call ahead to check if your local clinic provides this service. Most urgent care facilities can do basic scans, but advanced tests may require a hospital or imaging center.
Where can I get an ultrasound near me?
Ultrasounds are available at hospitals, imaging centers, radiology clinics, and some urgent care facilities. Always check with your healthcare provider for a referral and confirm with your insurance to see what locations and services are covered.
Can you eat before an ultrasound?
Eating before an ultrasound depends on the type of exam. Some ultrasounds, like abdominal scans, often require fasting for several hours, while others do not require any change in eating habits. Always follow the specific instructions given by your healthcare provider or imaging center.
Can ultrasound detect cancer?
Ultrasound can find suspicious masses and help detect cancer but cannot confirm cancer on its own. Further tests like biopsy and additional imaging are often needed for diagnosis.
Questions to ask before an ultrasound
Before an ultrasound, it helps to ask questions to prepare and understand your procedure:
What is the reason for this ultrasound?
How do I prepare, and can I eat beforehand?
What will the ultrasound look for?
How and when will I get results?
Will the test be uncomfortable?
What does it cost, and is it covered by my insurance?
What are the next steps if the scan finds something abnormal?
The content of this site is for educational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or services. The information provided should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of health problems. Always consult with a licensed healthcare professional for advice about any medical concerns.