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Probe for percutaneous lumbar discectomy cost in California
Probe for percutaneous lumbar discectomy is an imaging test. Cash prices for imaging vary widely: hospitals often charge several times what an independent imaging center charges for the same scan.
Typical cash price
In California
From 26 hospital and 0 clinic prices in California.
Nationwide typical: $1,895 (most listed prices $224–$11,039).
Cheapest in California
- $175
Doctor fees are billed separately.
Source: Dominican Hospital price file · checked Oct 2026 - $178
Doctor fees are billed separately.
Source: Mercy Medical Center Merced price file · checked Oct 2026 - $203
Doctor fees are billed separately.
Source: St. Joseph's Medical Center Stockton price file · checked Oct 2026 - $213
Doctor fees are billed separately.
Source: Mercy General Hospital price file · checked Oct 2026 - $267
Doctor fees are billed separately.
Source: Mercy San Juan Medical Center price file · checked Oct 2026 - $267
Doctor fees are billed separately.
Source: Woodland Memorial Hospital price file · checked Oct 2026 - $281
Doctor fees are billed separately.
Source: Methodist Hospital of Sacramento price file · checked Oct 2026 - $305
Doctor fees are billed separately.
Source: Northridge Hospital Medical Center price file · checked Oct 2026 - $306
Doctor fees are billed separately.
Source: Mercy Medical Center Redding price file · checked Oct 2026 - $317
Doctor fees are billed separately.
Source: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital price file · checked Oct 2026 - $318
Doctor fees are billed separately.
Source: Glendale Memorial Hospital Health Center price file · checked Oct 2026 - $321
Doctor fees are billed separately.
Source: Mercy Hospitals – Bakersfield price file · checked Oct 2026
Common questions
Is the radiologist's read included?
Not always. Hospitals usually list the scan (technical fee) and the radiologist's read (professional fee) separately. Many imaging centers quote one all-in price. Look for the "All-in", "Scan only" or "Read only" label on each price.
Do I need a referral?
Most imaging tests need an order from a doctor, nurse practitioner or physician assistant. Some imaging centers can arrange one; ask when you call.
Why are prices so different?
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.
Can I pay cash if I have insurance?
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.
What is a Good Faith Estimate?
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.