How Much Does Bronchoscopy with Biopsy(s) Cost?
Also known as: Bronchoscopy w/biopsy(s) (CPT 31625)
Bronchoscopy with biopsy - taking tissue samples from the airways or lungs during bronchoscopy.
The total estimated cost of Bronchoscopy with Biopsy(s) (CPT 31625) is $472 to $886, including hospital fees, anesthesia, and supplies. The surgeon's Medicare fee alone is $141.
Total Estimated Cost of Care
This estimate includes hospital facility fees, anesthesia, and supplies .
Patient Guide: Bronchoscopy with Biopsy(s)
What you need to know before your appointment
What to Expect
During a bronchoscopy, the doctor uses a small tool through the scope to take tissue samples from suspicious areas in the airways or lungs.
How Long Does It Take?
30-60 minutes (plus recovery)
Common Reasons Doctors Order This
Lung mass biopsy, airway tumor evaluation, diagnosing lung infection, sarcoidosis evaluation
How to Prepare
Fast for 6-8 hours. Arrange a driver. You may cough up small amounts of blood for a day, which is normal. Do not eat until throat numbness wears off.
Procedures Commonly Done Together
These procedures are frequently performed alongside Bronchoscopy w/biopsy(s)
How to Reduce Your Cost for Bronchoscopy w/biopsy(s)
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 ($384) differs from the facility rate ($141). 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 (11.50) x CF ($33.40) = $384
Related Procedures
Similar procedures in the same category or body system
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Bronchoscopy w/biopsy(s) cost?
The Medicare facility rate for Bronchoscopy w/biopsy(s) is $141. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).
How much does Bronchoscopy w/biopsy(s) cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the cost of Bronchoscopy w/biopsy(s) 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 Bronchoscopy w/biopsy(s)?
Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover Bronchoscopy w/biopsy(s) 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.