Aurora Burlington Charges $355 for Flow Cytometry, First Marker Procedure

Overview: Flow cytometry is a specialized laboratory procedure crucial for diagnosing and monitoring diseases such as cancers and immune system disorders. At Aurora Medical Center Burlington, the charge for the “Flow Cytometry, First Marker” procedure is $355. This fee covers the initial analysis of a single marker, which is essential for identifying specific cell types or disease markers in a biological sample—an important step for accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment planning. Patients should note that the listed fee is typically for the first marker only; additional markers, physician interpretation, or related laboratory work may incur extra charges. To avoid unexpected expenses, request an itemized estimate from the provider and clarify what is included in the quoted fee.

Cost Breakdown

• Flow Cytometry, First Marker: $355 (covers setup and analysis of the first marker)
• Additional Markers: May incur extra fees per marker analyzed
• Physician Interpretation: Often billed separately
• Sample Collection & Processing: Potential additional laboratory charges

Associated Costs to Consider

• Pre-procedure consultations or blood draws
• Follow-up appointments to discuss results
• Other diagnostic tests recommended based on findings
• Insurance copays, deductibles, and coinsurance

Insurance & Payment Advice

• Check with your insurance provider to confirm coverage for flow cytometry and clarify which components are included.
• Ask the billing office for CPT or revenue codes to cross-reference with your insurance benefits.
• Request a detailed, itemized estimate before the test to understand all potential charges.
• Inquire about financial assistance or payment plans if you are uninsured or facing high out-of-pocket costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is flow cytometry used for?
  Flow cytometry is commonly used to diagnose and monitor diseases such as leukemia, lymphoma, and immune disorders by analyzing the characteristics of cells in a sample.
• Is the $355 fee all-inclusive?
  No, the $355 fee covers only the first marker analyzed. Additional markers, physician interpretation, and other laboratory services may cost extra.
• How can I find out if my insurance will cover flow cytometry?
  Contact your insurance provider with the procedure’s CPT or revenue code to confirm coverage and ask what portion you may be responsible for.
• Are there costs beyond the laboratory analysis?
  Yes, you may be billed separately for specimen collection, additional markers, physician review, and follow-up consultations.
• Can I get an itemized bill for flow cytometry?
  Yes, you can and should request an itemized bill to ensure you understand each component of the charges.
• What should I do if I can’t afford the test?
  Ask the provider about financial assistance programs or payment plans, and check if nonprofit organizations offer support for diagnostic testing.
• Is flow cytometry safe?
  Flow cytometry is considered a safe laboratory technique, as it typically involves only a standard blood or tissue sample collection.
• How long does it take to get results?
  Results are often available within a few days, but the exact timeline may vary based on the complexity of the test and laboratory workload.
• Will I need additional tests after flow cytometry?
  Depending on the results, your physician may recommend further diagnostic tests or follow-up procedures.
• How can I minimize out-of-pocket costs?
  Verify in-network provider status, confirm all services are covered, and request upfront estimates to avoid unexpected charges.
• Does flow cytometry require any special preparation?
  Usually, no special preparation is needed, but follow any instructions provided by your healthcare team regarding sample collection.

Aurora Medical Center Burlington, located at 252 McHenry St, Burlington, WI, offers a range of medical services, including a specialized diagnostic test known as flow cytometry. This procedure is instrumental in analyzing the physical and chemical characteristics of cells or particles, often used in diagnosing various health conditions, such as cancers and immune system disorders. At Aurora Burlington, the cost for the "Flow Cytometry, First Marker" procedure is set at $355. This price reflects the initial analysis of a single marker, which is essential for identifying specific cell types or disease markers within a sample, providing critical information for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

What is flow cytometry? – Flow cytometry is a laboratory technique used to detect and measure physical and chemical characteristics of a population of cells or particles.

Why is flow cytometry important? – It is crucial for diagnosing and monitoring diseases, particularly cancers and immune disorders, by providing detailed information about cell types and functions.

How does flow cytometry work? – The process involves suspending cells in a fluid and passing them through a laser, where they are analyzed based on light scattering and fluorescence.

What does the "first marker" mean in flow cytometry? – The "first marker" refers to the initial specific protein or antigen on the cell surface that is targeted and analyzed during the procedure.

Is flow cytometry covered by insurance? – Coverage depends on individual insurance plans and the medical necessity of the test; it’s advisable to check with your provider.

How long does it take to get results from flow cytometry? – Results typically take a few days, but the exact time can vary depending on the complexity of the test and the laboratory’s workload.

Can flow cytometry detect all types of cancer? – While it is a powerful tool for identifying certain types of cancer, it may not be suitable for all cancer types; other diagnostic methods might be necessary.

Are there any risks associated with flow cytometry? – The procedure itself is generally safe, as it involves analyzing cells outside the body, but risks may be associated with the initial sample collection.