How Much Does IV Infusion Therapy (First Hour) Cost?
Also known as: Ther/proph/diag iv inf init (CPT 96365)
Intravenous (IV) infusion of a therapeutic medication, first hour.
IV Infusion Therapy (First Hour) (CPT 96365) costs $67 at Medicare rates.
Patient Guide: IV Infusion Therapy (First Hour)
What you need to know before your appointment
What to Expect
A nurse places an IV in your arm and slowly infuses medication. You will be monitored for allergic reactions or side effects during the infusion. You sit in a comfortable chair.
How Long Does It Take?
First hour (many infusions take 1-4 hours total)
Common Reasons Doctors Order This
Biologic medications (Remicade, Rituxan), iron infusions, IV antibiotics, chemotherapy, IV steroids
How to Prepare
Stay hydrated. Eat a light meal before. Bring something to read or do during the infusion. Wear comfortable clothing with sleeves that roll up easily.
Procedures Commonly Done Together
These procedures are frequently performed alongside Ther/proph/diag iv inf init
How to Reduce Your Cost for Ther/proph/diag iv inf init
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 (2.01) x CF ($33.40) = $67
Related Procedures
Similar procedures in the same category or body system
People Also Ask
Common questions people search for about this procedure
Is iron infusion covered by insurance?
Why are doctors reluctant to give iron infusions?
Premedication reduces infusion reactions during intravenous iron administration. Many clinicians are still reluctant to use IV iron due to concerns about anaphylaxis, although true life-threatening allergic reactions are exceedingly rare and vastly overestimated 93, 106.
What is the average cost of an iron infusion?
How long do iron infusions usually last?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Ther/proph/diag iv inf init cost?
The Medicare facility rate for Ther/proph/diag iv inf init is $67. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).
How much does Ther/proph/diag iv inf init cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the cost of Ther/proph/diag iv inf init 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 Ther/proph/diag iv inf init?
Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover Ther/proph/diag iv inf init 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.