Going to see a neurologist is not generally something we look forward to. It often means there’s an issue with our nervous system which can be stressful and scary.
Another reason for stress is the costs involved. Going to see the doctor generally isn’t cheap. But how much does it cost to see a neurologist?
The short answer is that it varies widely. Below you’ll find some average costs for visits and common tests your neurologist may order. You’ll also learn about what factors affect the costs.
How Much Does It Cost To See A Neurologist
There is no exact answer to this question. There are a lot of various factors in play. And all these factors will affect your total bill.
However, what we can tell you is the average cost and estimates depending on those factors.
The average cost to see a neurologist ranges from $50 to $500. The national average in the United States is right around $300.
What determines the amount you’ll end up paying?
Well, your insurance for one. That’s one of the biggest factors. Here your costs will be determined by whether the neurologist is In-Network or not. The level of care your plan/tier offers can make a big difference in what you pay as well. Also, your copays, coinsurance and deductible will make a difference in what you pay for your visit.
While not having insurance can make visits to a neurologist more expensive, some neurologists may offer reduced rates to those who don’t have health insurance.
Another thing that has a big impact on costs is what you are seeing the neurologist for. If you just see the neurologist for a consult, that will cost a lot less than if they run tests and/or give you any treatments.
Another factor that will affect the costs is what neurologist/clinic you go to. This can vary from state to state, from rural to urban areas and even within the same city.
Costs of Common Neurological Tests
Unfortunately, many of the common tests that a neurologist will perform on patients have gotten much more expensive in recent years.
For example, one common test a neurologist may use to diagnose conditions such as epilepsy is the EEG. While that used to cost around $40 out-of-pocket on average, the average cost for the test is now over $110!
Another common test neurologists use is the MRI scan. Costs for these have risen from a little over $80 on average to almost $250. Without insurance, an MRI can cost anywhere from around $1,000 to $5,000.
The nature of your visit/test will also factor into how much you end up paying. For example, MRI scans of different body parts have different costs. So it may cost more to get an MRI of your neck than your brain depending on your situation.
These are some of the average costs for a visit to the neurologists. However, as we have previously mentioned, the costs vary depending on a lot of different factors.
The best way to know for sure is to ask for an estimate of your bill before you go. You can also save money by asking your insurance provider about neurologist services they cover. Or, if you don’t have insurance, talk to your neurologist about a discount rate or payment plan.