Do Ultrasounds Fall Under Health Insurance?

How Does an Ultrasound Work?

Sonogram is another name for an ultrasound. According to the Mayo Clinic, this treatment makes photographs of various bodily parts using high-frequency sound waves. These photos are helpful in giving doctors the details they need to make the diagnosis. A doctor can then develop a treatment plan once a diagnosis has been made.

A transducer is often placed on the exterior of the body after the gel is applied to the skin in order to perform an ultrasound. The transducer transmits sound waves into the body and collects the sound waves that return. The computer uses these sound waves to create visuals of the inside of the body.

ultrasonography for medical purposes

There are several health conditions where ultrasounds can be used. Pregnancy-related ultrasounds are one of the most frequently performed procedures. According to Mayo Clinic, ultrasound makes it possible for doctors to see the uterus throughout pregnancy and keep an eye on the health of the unborn child.

According to Mayo Clinic, ultrasounds are also used to diagnose gallbladder disease, guide needles during tumor biopsies, evaluate blood flow, inspect thyroid glands and breast lumps, diagnose prostate problems, check for joint inflammation, and monitor metabolic bone diseases.

Overuse of ultrasounds

Additionally, frequent throughout pregnancy are unnecessary ultrasounds. Given that they are not medically essential, these ultrasounds are frequently referred to as "keepsake ultrasounds." Instead, they make it possible for pregnant parents to see their unborn children. These ultrasounds will frequently also show the gender of the fetus.

Ultrasounds that are not a medical necessity are typically not covered by health insurance companies. In these situations, you would be responsible for covering the ultrasound's out-of-pocket costs.

Ultrasound equipment costs

A number of factors affect how much an ultrasound costs. If you pay in full with cash on the day of service, certain service providers will give you a discount. Expect to pay extra if you choose to pay overtime in installments.

According to the website CostHelper, a normal ultrasound performed by a qualified medical expert should cost roughly $200. Depending on the bundle, keepsake ultrasounds performed at independent, non-medical facilities might cost anywhere between $100 and $300.

Further Advice

It's likely to be covered as long as your ultrasound is required and was prescribed by a doctor. Check your health insurance policy to see if there are any limitations on ultrasounds so you don't incur any unforeseen costs.