CPT 46600 Surgery - Digestive

How Much Does Diagnostic Anoscopy Spx Cost?

Also known as: Diagnostic anoscopy spx (CPT 46600)

Anoscopy, examination of the anal canal using a short scope.

The total estimated cost of Diagnostic Anoscopy Spx (CPT 46600) is $136 to $255, including hospital fees, anesthesia, and supplies. The surgeon's Medicare fee alone is $40.

Total Estimated Cost of Care

$136 — $255

This estimate includes hospital facility fees, anesthesia, and supplies .

Surgeon/Physician Fee
$40
Hospital Facility Fee
$121
Anesthesia (est.)
$8
Important: The physician fee of $40 shown in the cost cards below is what Medicare pays the surgeon/doctor only. The hospital charges a separate facility fee that typically makes up 70-85% of the total cost.
Medicare Physician Fee (Facility Setting)
$40
Physician component only — CMS PFS 2026
Medicare Physician Fee (Office/Clinic)
$129
Non-facility setting

Patient Guide: Diagnostic Anoscopy Spx

What you need to know before your appointment

What to Expect

A short, rigid or flexible scope is gently inserted into the anus to examine the lower rectum and anal canal.

How Long Does It Take?

5-10 minutes

Common Reasons Doctors Order This

Hemorrhoid evaluation, rectal bleeding, anal pain, anal fissure, anal wart evaluation

How to Prepare

An enema may be needed before. The exam causes pressure but should not be very painful.

Procedures Commonly Done Together

These procedures are frequently performed alongside Diagnostic anoscopy spx

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How to Reduce Your Cost for Diagnostic anoscopy spx

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 ($129) differs from the facility rate ($40). 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.

0.54
Work RVU
0.59
Practice Expense RVU
0.08
Malpractice RVU
3.86
Total RVU

Payment = Total RVU (3.86) x CF ($33.40) = $129

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Diagnostic anoscopy spx cost?

The Medicare facility rate for Diagnostic anoscopy spx is $40. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).

How much does Diagnostic anoscopy spx cost without insurance?

Without insurance, the cost of Diagnostic anoscopy spx 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 Diagnostic anoscopy spx?

Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover Diagnostic anoscopy spx 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.

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