Prices from 1583 US hospitals across 52 states, from their machine-readable files.
Typical cash range: $465 – $2,848.
Lowest cash prices
Source: hospitals’ machine-readable price files (45 CFR §180). Medicare benchmark from CMS PFS/CLFS/IPPS. Estimates — confirm with the hospital. Report an incorrect price.
About Chest fluid drain (thoracentesis) prices
Chest fluid drain (thoracentesis) is an endoscopic procedure. Based on prices published by 1583 US hospitals across 52 states, the typical (median) cash price is $1,210, versus a chargemaster (list) price around $2,191, a median insurer-negotiated rate of $917, a Medicare rate of about $311. Most cash prices fall between $465 and $2,848 — a wide spread, which is exactly why comparing hospitals pays off.
How to save on Chest fluid drain (thoracentesis)
- Ask each hospital for its cash / self-pay price — for shoppable services it is often far below the list price.
- Compare several nearby hospitals; prices for the same service can differ severalfold.
- Request a written estimate and the billing code (CPT/DRG) before scheduling.
- Use the Medicare benchmark above to judge whether a quote is reasonable.
- If you are uninsured, ask about financial assistance or prompt-pay discounts.
Chest fluid drain (thoracentesis) cost — FAQ
How much does Chest fluid drain (thoracentesis) cost without insurance?
The median cash (self-pay) price across 1583 US hospitals is $1,210. Most hospitals fall between $465 and $2,848. Prices vary widely between hospitals, so it pays to compare before you book.
What does Medicare pay for Chest fluid drain (thoracentesis)?
Medicare pays about $311. We show this as a benchmark — a fair cash price is often within a few multiples of the Medicare rate.
Why do Chest fluid drain (thoracentesis) prices vary between hospitals?
Hospitals set their own chargemaster and cash prices and negotiate different rates with each insurer, so two hospitals in the same area can charge very differently for the same service.
Is the cash price lower than using insurance?
Sometimes. If you are uninsured or have a high deductible, the cash/self-pay price can be lower than the insurer-negotiated rate — ask the hospital for both.
By city
By state
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