CPT 76700 is a complete abdominal ultrasound: liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, kidneys and the large vessels in one exam. It is done for gallstones, liver enzyme abnormalities, abdominal pain and follow-up of known findings. It takes 20 to 30 minutes with no radiation and no injection.
What the price covers
The hospital's price is the technical fee for the ultrasound machine, the sonographer and the room. The radiologist's reading is billed separately. A limited ultrasound of one organ (76705) is a cheaper code; ask which was ordered.
Why prices vary
Ultrasound is inexpensive to perform and the listed prices vary enormously, from under $200 to over $2,000 for the same exam. Hospital-owned outpatient centers, physician offices and freestanding imaging centers are usually far below the hospital main campus.
Questions to ask
- Is this the self-pay price for 76700, and does it include the reading?
- Would a limited exam (76705) of the organ in question be enough?
- Where else in your system is this exam offered, and at what price?