How Much Does Incision and Drainage of Abscess (Simple) Cost?
Also known as: I&d abscess simple/single (CPT 10060)
A procedure to cut open and drain a skin abscess (boil or infected pocket of pus).
Incision and Drainage of Abscess (Simple) (CPT 10060) costs $101 at Medicare rates. Hospital outpatient rate: $205.
Cost Comparison by Payer
How much I&d abscess simple/single costs across different settings and payers
Patient Guide: Incision and Drainage of Abscess (Simple)
What you need to know before your appointment
What to Expect
The area is numbed with local anesthetic. The doctor makes a small cut to drain the infection, then packs the wound with gauze.
How Long Does It Take?
15-30 minutes
Common Reasons Doctors Order This
Skin abscess, boil, infected cyst, MRSA infection, painful swollen lump
How to Prepare
No fasting needed. Take pain medication before if your doctor approves. Bring someone to drive if you prefer.
Procedures Commonly Done Together
These procedures are frequently performed alongside I&d abscess simple/single
How to Reduce Your Cost for I&d abscess simple/single
Practical tips that can save you hundreds or thousands of dollars
- 1 Ask about cash-pay discounts
Many hospitals and clinics offer 20-40% discounts for self-pay patients. Always ask before scheduling.
- 2 Compare facility vs. office setting costs
For this procedure, the office rate ($129) differs from the facility rate ($101). Ask if it can be done in an office setting.
- 3 Shop around — costs vary significantly
Costs can vary 2-3x between providers in the same city. Get quotes from multiple facilities.
- 4 Check ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs)
This procedure is available at ASCs for $85, compared to $205 at hospital outpatient departments. ASCs often offer lower costs with comparable quality.
How is the Price Calculated?
Medicare calculates procedure payments using Relative Value Units (RVUs). Each procedure has three components multiplied by a conversion factor ($33.40 in 2026) and adjusted by geographic cost indices.
Payment = Total RVU (3.85) x CF ($33.40) = $129
Related Procedures
Similar procedures in the same category or body system
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does I&d abscess simple/single cost?
The Medicare facility rate for I&d abscess simple/single is $101. In a hospital outpatient setting, the rate is $205. At an ambulatory surgery center, the rate is $85. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).
How much does I&d abscess simple/single cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the cost of I&d abscess simple/single can range from 150% of Medicare to 500% of Medicare depending on the facility. Many hospitals and clinics offer self-pay discounts of 20-40% off their chargemaster price. Always ask about cash pricing before your visit.
Does insurance cover I&d abscess simple/single?
Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover I&d abscess simple/single when ordered by a physician for a medically necessary reason. Your out-of-pocket cost depends on your plan's deductible, copay/coinsurance structure, and whether you use an in-network provider. Check with your insurance company before scheduling to confirm coverage and get a cost estimate.
Why does the cost vary so much by location?
Medicare adjusts payments using Geographic Practice Cost Indices (GPCIs) that reflect local differences in physician work costs, practice expenses, and malpractice insurance. Manhattan, San Francisco, and other high-cost areas pay significantly more than rural regions. Commercial insurers follow similar geographic patterns.