How Much Does Thyroid Imaging with Blood Flow Cost?
Also known as: Thyroid imaging w/blood flow (CPT 78014)
Thyroid uptake and scan using radioactive iodine.
Thyroid Imaging with Blood Flow (CPT 78014) costs $211 at Medicare rates.
The rates shown below represent the complete Medicare reimbursement for this service. No separate facility fee applies for this type of procedure.
Patient Guide: Thyroid Imaging with Blood Flow
What you need to know before your appointment
What to Expect
You swallow a small amount of radioactive iodine. After several hours (and sometimes the next day), a camera measures how much iodine your thyroid absorbs.
How Long Does It Take?
Two visits: initial pill and imaging 4-24 hours later
Common Reasons Doctors Order This
Hyperthyroidism evaluation, thyroid nodule assessment, Graves disease diagnosis
How to Prepare
Stop thyroid medications as directed (some for days or weeks before). Avoid iodine-rich foods for 1-2 weeks before. No CT contrast dye for 6 weeks before.
Procedures Commonly Done Together
These procedures are frequently performed alongside Thyroid imaging w/blood flow
How to Reduce Your Cost for Thyroid imaging w/blood flow
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 (6.31) x CF ($33.40) = $211
Related Procedures
Similar procedures in the same category or body system
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Thyroid imaging w/blood flow cost?
The Medicare facility rate for Thyroid imaging w/blood flow is $211. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).
How much does Thyroid imaging w/blood flow cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the cost of Thyroid imaging w/blood flow 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 Thyroid imaging w/blood flow?
Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover Thyroid imaging w/blood flow 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.