How Much Does Diagnostic Bronchoscope/wash Cost?
Also known as: Dx bronchoscope/wash (CPT 31622)
A bronchoscopy where a flexible camera is inserted through the nose or mouth to examine the airways and lungs.
The total estimated cost of Diagnostic Bronchoscope/wash (CPT 31622) is $404 to $757, including hospital fees, anesthesia, and supplies. The surgeon's Medicare fee alone is $120.
Total Estimated Cost of Care
This estimate includes hospital facility fees, anesthesia, and supplies .
Patient Guide: Diagnostic Bronchoscope/wash
What you need to know before your appointment
What to Expect
Under sedation, a thin, flexible tube with a camera is passed through your nose or mouth into your airways. The doctor can examine the airways, take tissue samples, and wash areas for testing.
How Long Does It Take?
30-60 minutes (plus 1-2 hours recovery)
Common Reasons Doctors Order This
Persistent cough, coughing up blood, lung mass evaluation, airway obstruction, lung infection diagnosis, suspected lung cancer
How to Prepare
Fast for 6-8 hours. Arrange a driver. Your throat will be numb for 1-2 hours after. Do not eat or drink until the numbness wears off.
Procedures Commonly Done Together
These procedures are frequently performed alongside Dx bronchoscope/wash
How to Reduce Your Cost for Dx bronchoscope/wash
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 ($282) differs from the facility rate ($120). 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 (8.45) x CF ($33.40) = $282
Related Procedures
Similar procedures in the same category or body system
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Dx bronchoscope/wash cost?
The Medicare facility rate for Dx bronchoscope/wash is $120. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).
How much does Dx bronchoscope/wash cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the cost of Dx bronchoscope/wash 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 Dx bronchoscope/wash?
Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover Dx bronchoscope/wash 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.