How Much Does Ultrasound of the Head and Neck (Soft Tissue) Cost?
Also known as: Us exam of head and neck (CPT 76536)
An ultrasound examination of the soft tissues of the head and neck, including the thyroid gland and lymph nodes.
Ultrasound of the Head and Neck (Soft Tissue) (CPT 76536) costs $109 at Medicare rates. Hospital outpatient rate: $107.
Cost Comparison by Payer
How much Us exam of head and neck costs across different settings and payers
Patient Guide: Ultrasound of the Head and Neck (Soft Tissue)
What you need to know before your appointment
What to Expect
Gel is applied to your neck and a wand is moved over the area to create images of the thyroid, lymph nodes, and other structures.
How Long Does It Take?
15-30 minutes
Common Reasons Doctors Order This
Thyroid nodule, enlarged lymph nodes, neck mass, thyroid evaluation, salivary gland assessment
How to Prepare
No preparation needed. Wear a top with a low neckline for easy access.
Procedures Commonly Done Together
These procedures are frequently performed alongside Us exam of head and neck
How to Reduce Your Cost for Us exam of head and neck
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
Some procedures cost significantly less in an office setting than a hospital. Ask your provider about options.
- 3 Shop around — costs vary significantly
Costs can vary 2-3x between providers in the same city. Get quotes from multiple facilities.
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 (3.25) x CF ($33.40) = $109
Related Procedures
Similar procedures in the same category or body system
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Us exam of head and neck cost?
The Medicare facility rate for Us exam of head and neck is $109. In a hospital outpatient setting, the rate is $107. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).
How much does Us exam of head and neck cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the cost of Us exam of head and neck 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 Us exam of head and neck?
Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover Us exam of head and neck 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.