Draining fluid from the abdomen (paracentesis), initial cost in Illinois

A bundled (all-in) price usually covers the facility, the surgeon and anesthesia for the procedure itself. Pre-op tests, implants, pathology and follow-up visits are sometimes extra. Ask for a written Good Faith Estimate.

You usually need a consultation with the surgeon or specialist first. Ask whether the consultation is included in the cash price.

Each hospital and clinic sets its own cash price. Hospitals publish prices because federal rules require it; clinics and booking sites set prices to compete. The same service can cost several times more at one place than at another nearby.

Yes. You can choose to self-pay. A cash price is often lower than what you would pay before meeting your deductible. Cash payments may not count toward your deductible, so check with your plan. Our cash vs. insurance tool can help you decide.

If you are uninsured or paying cash, providers must give you a Good Faith Estimate of the cost on request. If your final bill is $400 or more above the estimate, you can dispute it.