EKG stands for electrocardiogram; it is sometimes called ECG. It is an imaging device that records the heart’s electrical activity and shows the size and position of the heart’s chambers. It is a painless and quick way to diagnose or detect heart diseases or illnesses. At every heartbeat, electrical signals run through the heart. An electrocardiogram shows every beat rate and strength. It is a helpful tool that gives a doctor a quick diagnosis of what is wrong with the patient. This article shed light on How much does an EKG cost?
During an electrocardiogram procedure, the person lies on an exam table, and electrodes are attached to the skin of the chest, legs, and arms. It takes about ten minutes to get them fully attached. The electrodes are in turn attached to a computer by wires so that the electrical activity of the heart can be recorded while it is displayed on the screen. Your doctor may recommend an EKG because of the following reasons.
Why do you need an EKG test?
If you are experiencing some symptoms of heart disease, an EKG may be needed. Some of these symptoms are:
- Chest pain
- Arrhythmia (irregular heart rhythms)
- Record of past heart attack
- Rapid pulse
There are no special preparations that need to be performed before an EKG or ECG test, though certain areas like the chest may require shaving to ease the sticking of the electrodes, there is no need for starving of any kind. There are other types of EKG that your doctor may recommend if your symptoms are not read by a standard electrocardiogram.
Types of EKG.
- Holter monitor- this is a type of electrocardiogram that checks the electrical activity of the heart for up to 24- 48 hours. If your doctor suspects that you have an irregular heart rhythm, or your body is not getting enough blood to your muscles, a Holter monitor may be suggested. The electrodes are taped to your body while you go around your daily activities, except taking a bath. You would keep a record of the activities and any abnormality you notice. The physician will print and interpret the results. Usually, an Holter monitor test will cost from $300-$1200 without medical insurance.
- Event monitor- The mode of operation involves pushing a button when you start feeling uneasy; it only records for a few minutes. The event monitor can be worn just like the Holter monitor, but for longer periods- 30 days or less. Immediately, the monitor takes the reading, sends the results to your doctor’s phone and your heart health can be interpreted. An event recording test will cost about $195, while analysis will cost more than $300, without insurance.
- Exercise EKG- an exercise EKG takes a stress test. While a patient exercises, the device monitors the heart breathing rates, and blood pressure. It is usually used to detect coronary diseases and measure safe levels of exercise for a person. Uninsured person may pay up to $4000 for a stress test, while patients with insurance may take a test for $200-$400, depending on the hospital.
From testing to displaying, to reading of results, taking an EKG or ECG test will require seeing a doctor and subsequently spending money. The cost will vary depending on insurance, attending physician, and the geographical location of the hospital.
How much does an EKG cost?
- Testing -The cost of a standard EKG may fall in the range of $200-$2000. On a nationwide average, a standard test will cost $800. With insurance, as long as the test is medically important, the price will fall within $100 to $500.
- Reading of the result- the price of a test interpretation by a medical professional is charged separately from the actual test. A reading will cost up to $50 and above depending on the clinic.
- Additional test- if abnormalities show up on the test result, another EKG may be required, or another test to couple the EKG. This may come with additional charges. For example, a blood work test may cost $200 or more. Insurance can cover these bills.
Conclusively, once a person starts experiencing symptoms like dizziness, palpitations, and fatigue, no matter how mild, it is important that you visit the doctor and get an EKG test. It can help prevent a heart attack or complete heart failure. An abnormal EKG may sometimes be readings from a healthy heart, or may signal an emergency like myocardial infarction. In all, paying attention to your symptoms will keep you out of the woods.
FAQ : How much does an EKG cost?
- How long does it take to get an EKG test done?
Answer: the total procedure of getting an EKG, from attaching the electrodes to recording, usually takes about 10 minutes.
- Can an EKG detect a previous heart attack?
Answer: A cardiac MRI is used to accurately diagnose a previous heart attack; though an EKG can do the same, it is only a little accurate. An EKG can accurately predict if a person will have a heart attack in the coming days.
