Shoppable procedures
A shoppable procedure is a non-emergency service you can schedule in advance, which means you usually have time to compare prices between hospitals and outpatient centers. We currently explain 4 common shoppable procedures and show estimated price ranges for each across several U.S. metros. Each explainer covers what the procedure is, what drives its cost, and the questions to ask so you are not surprised by the bill.
Procedure explainers
Imaging · Magnetic resonance imaging of the head without contrast dye — a common outpatient scan used to investigate headaches, dizziness and neurological symptoms.
Colonoscopy (diagnostic)Outpatient surgery · An outpatient endoscopic exam of the colon used for screening and to investigate digestive symptoms.
Childbirth — vaginal deliveryInpatient · An uncomplicated vaginal birth with a typical short hospital stay — one of the most common reasons for a U.S. hospital admission.
Total knee replacementInpatient/major surgery · A major elective orthopedic surgery to replace a worn knee joint — almost always scheduled in advance.