Cost of HIDA Scan???????????? - Digestive Disorders Message Board

carol thomas · 07-08-2003, 04:47 PM

My ultrasound revealed "multiple gallstones" and now the doc wants me to have a "HIDA" scan to check it's function. I've had a couple of GB attacks and some other digestive complaints over the past year.

First, do I even NEED the HIDA scan if we know the stones are there?

Does anyone know the cost of such a test? I've been trying to get the info from the doctor's office and the hospital's nuclear medicine test facility but no one will give me even a ballpark figure.

The insurance company is no help, either. I have 80-20 coverage with a PPO insurance plan so I always have to pay a lot of money, it seems. These doctor visits/tests, etc. are really adding up.

Can't even get much info via the internet. I'm in Los Angeles so costs are likely higher than some other places. Does anyone have a guess about this? THANKS!

farscape66 · 07-09-2003, 07:20 AM

I was told by 2 GI dr's that the HIDA scan is a totally worthless test and very prone to inaccurate measurements. They both told me to cancel it.
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I am unaware of the cost. I have a 90/10 PPO so it's not as bad, but it still can add up.
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Instead of the HIDA scan I am having a CT Scan, Gastric Emptying Study, Endoscopy, and another Ultrasound. I am sure all of this will cost more, but it will give a lot more info than the Hida scan will.