Took my 5yo for a well-child visit where the doctor heard a heart murmur and referred us to a pediatric cardiologist.
At the cardiologist's office the doctor checked his heart via stethoscope and ultrasound to the tune of $4229. My portion to pay after insurance is $1553.11. And my son will need to get checked again later.
The high cost of medical care never ceases to amaze me.
$4229 Doctor Visit
August 29th, 2008 at 08:33 pm
August 29th, 2008 at 08:50 pm 1220039413
August 29th, 2008 at 09:33 pm 1220042001
August 29th, 2008 at 09:56 pm 1220043367
August 30th, 2008 at 01:04 am 1220054647
August 30th, 2008 at 04:02 am 1220065324
One thing that annoys me, and runs up costs, is what you described. Your doctor heard the murmur but had to refer your son to a cardiologist rather than just sending him for the ultrasound. I can send an adult patient for a heart ultrasound directly but for a kid, I must go through a cardiologist. Of course, the cardiologist bill is a few hundred dollars for the consultation. I'd rather get the ultrasound first and then order the consultation if I feel it is needed after I see the ultrasound results.