Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Fluoroscopy Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Barium Swallow (upper GI) | $300 – $1,000 | $75 – $250 |
| Barium Enema (lower GI) | $400 – $1,200 | $100 – $300 |
| Voiding Cystourethrogram (VCUG) | $500 – $1,500 | $100 – $350 |
| Fluoroscopic Guidance (for injection/procedure) | $200 – $800 | $50 – $200 |
| Esophagram | $300 – $900 | $75 – $225 |
CPT/ADA Code: CPT 76000
What Affects the Cost
- Facility type (freestanding center vs. hospital — hospitals cost 2-3x more)
- Geographic location
- Complexity of the visit or test
- Whether additional tests or procedures are needed
- In-network vs. out-of-network provider
- Time of day (emergency/after-hours may cost more)
Insurance Coverage
Typical coverage: Covered as diagnostic imaging; typically part of a broader procedure
Most diagnostic tests and urgent care visits are covered when medically necessary with a doctor's order. You'll pay your deductible first, then coinsurance (typically 20-40%). Preventive screenings are covered at $0 under the ACA. Always use in-network providers to avoid surprise bills.
How to Save Money
- Freestanding facilities cost 50-70% less than hospital-based
- Ask for cash-pay pricing upfront — often 40-60% less than billed rate
- Compare prices on MDsave.com or Healthcare Bluebook
- Use urgent care instead of ER for non-emergencies (save $1,000+)
- Telehealth visits cost $50-$100 for many conditions
- Check if the service qualifies as preventive care ($0 with insurance)
Related Procedures & Costs
Frequently Asked Questions
Fluoroscopy is real-time X-ray imaging that shows moving body structures. It uses continuous X-ray beams to create live video, allowing doctors to watch contrast dye move through your digestive system, urinary tract, or to guide needle placements.
Yes. Fluoroscopy is covered when medically necessary as a diagnostic imaging study or when used to guide therapeutic procedures like joint injections or catheter placements.
Fluoroscopy involves radiation exposure, but the dose is kept as low as possible. The benefit of diagnosis typically outweighs the small radiation risk. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, as radiation can harm the fetus.