What is an average bill for a colonoscopy?

This question was asked in Jamestown, North Carolina on 12/27/2012.
I think the doctor is making me pay more out of pocket for this procedure, by coding it diagnostic not routine for insurance billing. My husband and I had our first colonoscopy done in April of 2012, polyps were removed and tested; they were not cancerous. I got a bill of $1033, insurance paid $465.40 and I have the balance to pay $567.60 excluding copayment, same thing for my husband. I was told more bills will come from other specialists that participated during the procedure. I have called my insurance, because I thought this is a routine procedure which is covered 100%. I found out that the doctor coded it diagnostic and not routine. Are colonoscopies typically coded as diagnostic instead of routine? What is the average bill for a colonoscopy?

Doctors Answers (1)

Harsha Vittal, M.D.
Answered on: 1/2/2013 2

It depends on why you needed the procedure. You should discuss this with your gastroenterologist.