How Much Does an EKG Cost Out of Pocket?

The out-of-pocket cost of an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) can vary widely depending on several factors, including your location, healthcare provider, and insurance coverage. On average, an EKG can range from $50 to $200.

What is an EKG?

Also known as an electrocardiogram, an EKG is a test that measures the electrical activity in the heart to check for any irregularities. This test is typically conducted by a technician and the results are interpreted by a doctor. Generally, the test is not painful and takes less than 15 minutes to complete.

Common Prices

The cost of an EKG can vary based on the specific healthcare provider and whether you have insurance. Patients with insurance may have a lower out-of-pocket cost depending on their deductible, copay, and the specifics of their insurance plan. Below are some common price ranges:

Copay Prices: Depending on your insurance, you may pay between $30 to $100 for both the test and the analysis. For instance, members of the Massachusetts-based Harvard Pilgrim Health Care pay between $32 to $54 for an EKG and their interpretation of the results. Uninsured Costs: Uninsured individuals may face higher costs, with an EKG potentially costing between $500 to $3000. In some cases, such as the average cost mentioned by [2], it can cost around $1500, though some places may charge as high as $2000. Location-Specific Costs: Typically, EKGs cost more in larger urban centers than in smaller rural communities. The average cost can be higher in metropolitan areas due to the higher costs of healthcare and clinic space.

What to Expect During an EKG

During an EKG, electrodes are typically positioned at points on the chest, arms, and legs. Patients lie flat on a table, and occasionally, a paste or gel is used to attach the electrodes, which helps to boost the electrical impulses. A machine records the electrical activity on paper.

Insurance Coverage and Discounts

The EKG may be covered by health insurance, typically anywhere between 80% to 100%. Insurance providers will also cover the cost of EKGs in part or whole. For uninsured patients, some hospitals offer discounts. For example, the Washington Hospital Healthcare System provides uninsured patients with a 35% discount and even offers a financial assistance program for qualified uninsured patients.

Additional Testing and Costs

Alongside an EKG, other testing may be necessary, such as a heart rate monitor and a stress test. These also come with additional costs, which should be considered when budgeting for cardiovascular health.

EKG in School Athletics

Some school athletic programs use EKGs to check the heart health of student athletes. The Cypress Project, which aims to lower the cost of EKGs for student athletes, uses EKG machines to monitor several high schools in Texas. The cost of an EKG at these schools is about $30.

How to Access an EKG

The Heart Rhythm Society provides a searchable directory of cardiology professionals, while the American College of Cardiology offers an online directory of cardiology specialists. Additionally, the informative website Smart Heart Living provides advice on selecting a cardiologist.