How Much Does Nasal Endoscopy Diagnostic Cost?
Also known as: Nasal endoscopy dx (CPT 31231)
A nasal endoscopy where a thin, flexible camera is used to examine the inside of your nasal passages and sinuses.
The total estimated cost of Nasal Endoscopy Diagnostic (CPT 31231) is $184 to $345, including hospital fees, anesthesia, and supplies. The surgeon's Medicare fee alone is $55.
Total Estimated Cost of Care
This estimate includes hospital facility fees, anesthesia, and supplies .
Patient Guide: Nasal Endoscopy Diagnostic
What you need to know before your appointment
What to Expect
After numbing your nose with a spray, the doctor inserts a thin, flexible scope into your nostril to examine the nasal passages, sinuses, and throat. You may feel pressure but it should not be painful.
How Long Does It Take?
5-10 minutes
Common Reasons Doctors Order This
Chronic sinus problems, nasal obstruction, nosebleeds, nasal polyps, post-sinus surgery follow-up, smell loss evaluation
How to Prepare
No special preparation. Blow your nose gently before. The numbing spray may taste unpleasant. You can drive yourself home.
Procedures Commonly Done Together
These procedures are frequently performed alongside Nasal endoscopy dx
How to Reduce Your Cost for Nasal endoscopy dx
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 ($193) differs from the facility rate ($55). 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.
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 (5.79) x CF ($33.40) = $193
Related Procedures
Similar procedures in the same category or body system
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Nasal endoscopy dx cost?
The Medicare facility rate for Nasal endoscopy dx is $55. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).
How much does Nasal endoscopy dx cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the cost of Nasal endoscopy dx 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 Nasal endoscopy dx?
Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover Nasal endoscopy dx 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.