How Much Does Psycl/nrpsyc Tech Initial Cost?
Also known as: Psycl/nrpsyc tech 1st (CPT 96138)
Psychological testing administered by a technician under psychologist supervision, first 30 minutes.
Psycl/nrpsyc Tech Initial (CPT 96138) costs $38 at Medicare rates.
Patient Guide: Psycl/nrpsyc Tech Initial
What you need to know before your appointment
What to Expect
A trained technician (not the psychologist) will administer the tests to you. The psychologist will later score and interpret the results.
How Long Does It Take?
First 30 minutes (may extend over several hours)
Common Reasons Doctors Order This
Same as psychologist-administered testing, but with a technician conducting the actual test sessions
How to Prepare
Same as other testing: sleep well, eat, bring glasses or hearing aids.
Procedures Commonly Done Together
These procedures are frequently performed alongside Psycl/nrpsyc tech 1st
How to Reduce Your Cost for Psycl/nrpsyc tech 1st
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.
Related Procedures
Similar procedures in the same category or body system
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Psycl/nrpsyc tech 1st cost?
The Medicare facility rate for Psycl/nrpsyc tech 1st is $38. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).
How much does Psycl/nrpsyc tech 1st cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the cost of Psycl/nrpsyc tech 1st 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 Psycl/nrpsyc tech 1st?
Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover Psycl/nrpsyc tech 1st 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.