How Much Does EKG (Electrocardiogram) Cost?
Also known as: Electrocardiogram complete (CPT 93000)
A standard 12-lead electrocardiogram (EKG/ECG) that records the electrical activity of your heart.
EKG (Electrocardiogram) (CPT 93000) costs $15 at Medicare rates.
Patient Guide: EKG (Electrocardiogram)
What you need to know before your appointment
What to Expect
Small adhesive electrode patches are placed on your chest, arms, and legs. The machine records your heart electrical activity for about 10 seconds. It is completely painless.
How Long Does It Take?
5-10 minutes
Common Reasons Doctors Order This
Chest pain evaluation, irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, pre-surgical screening, high blood pressure monitoring, heart medication monitoring
How to Prepare
No special preparation. Avoid lotions on your chest. Wear a shirt that is easy to remove or open. Electrodes need to stick to your skin.
Procedures Commonly Done Together
These procedures are frequently performed alongside Electrocardiogram complete
What Insurance Companies Actually Pay
Real negotiated rates from 1 hospitals across 1 states (from hospital price transparency filings)
| Insurance Company | Avg Rate | Range | Hospitals |
|---|---|---|---|
| BCBS | $46 | $35 - $55 | 1 |
How to Reduce Your Cost for Electrocardiogram complete
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 (0.46) x CF ($33.40) = $15
Related Procedures
Similar procedures in the same category or body system
People Also Ask
Common questions people search for about this procedure
Will insurance cover an EKG?
How much does an EKG actually cost?
The average cost of an EKG test typically ranges from 0 to 00 for uninsured patients, depending on various factors such as location and facility fees.
What's the cheapest way to get an EKG?
Can Urgent Care Do EKG Test? Yes, many urgent care centers offer EKG testing at a lower cost compared to hospitals. Urgent care centers are a convenient and cost-effective option for getting an EKG test, especially if you need it quickly and without an appointment.
Why is an EKG so expensive?
The quality of equipment used and the experience of the healthcare professionals administering the test can affect pricing as well, ensuring accurate and efficient results. Additionally, payment methods and the timing of the test may influence cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Electrocardiogram complete cost?
The Medicare facility rate for Electrocardiogram complete is $15. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).
How much does Electrocardiogram complete cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the cost of Electrocardiogram complete 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 Electrocardiogram complete?
Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover Electrocardiogram complete 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.