Aurora Sheboygan Prices – Radiopharmaceutical Technetium-99m Medronate Up to 30 Millicuries Priced at $180

Technetium-99m Medronate is a radiopharmaceutical commonly used in nuclear medicine for bone scans, assisting in the diagnosis of bone fractures, infections, cancer, and other abnormalities. The $180 fee at Aurora Medical Center Sheboygan County covers the administration of up to 30 millicuries of Technetium-99m Medronate, as well as the expertise in handling and imaging. This cost typically includes the radiopharmaceutical dose, preparation, and the imaging process, but may not cover related physician fees, facility charges, or additional diagnostic procedures. Patients are advised to request an itemized estimate and confirm with their insurance provider what is covered under their plan.

Cost Breakdown

• Radiopharmaceutical agent (Technetium-99m Medronate): Included in the $180 fee (up to 30 millicuries)
• Radiology staff and administration: Included
• Imaging process (gamma camera use): Included
• Interpretation by a radiologist: May be billed separately
• Additional facility or physician fees: Not always included—ask for a detailed breakdown

Associated Costs

• Consultation or follow-up visits
• Other imaging studies or lab tests if required
• Separate radiologist interpretation charges
• Administration or injection fees if billed separately

Insurance & Payment Advice

• Contact your insurance provider to verify coverage for nuclear medicine bone scans and associated services.
• Ask the facility for an itemized estimate before your appointment.
• If you are uninsured or have a high deductible, inquire about self-pay discounts or payment plans.

Side-Effect & Recovery Considerations

• Technetium-99m Medronate is generally safe, with minimal side effects such as mild injection site discomfort or rare allergic reactions.
• The radioactive material is eliminated from the body within 24–48 hours; drinking fluids may speed up this process.
• Patients can typically resume normal activities immediately after the scan.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is Technetium-99m Medronate used for?
  It is used for bone scans to detect fractures, infections, cancer, or other bone abnormalities.
• Is the $180 fee all-inclusive?
  The $180 covers the radiopharmaceutical and imaging process, but consult the facility for possible separate physician or facility charges.
• How is the compound administered?
  It is injected into your bloodstream prior to the scan.
• How long does the procedure take?
  The injection is quick, but imaging may require several hours including waiting periods for optimal uptake in bones.
• Are there any risks or side effects?
  Risks are minimal; most patients experience no side effects beyond minor injection site discomfort or rare allergic reactions.
• Will my insurance cover this scan?
  Coverage varies; confirm with your insurance provider and obtain preauthorization if required.
• Do I need to prepare for the scan?
  Usually, no special preparation is needed, but follow any instructions provided by your healthcare team.
• How soon will I receive results?
  Results are typically available within a few days, once reviewed by a radiologist.
• Can I go home after the scan?
  Yes, you can resume normal activities immediately unless instructed otherwise.
• How do I minimize radiation exposure?
  Drink plenty of fluids after the scan to help flush the radioactive material from your body.
• Are children or pregnant women eligible for this procedure?
  Special precautions may be necessary; always inform your provider if you are pregnant or nursing.

Aurora Medical Center Sheboygan County offers a range of medical services, including radiopharmaceutical treatments. One such service is the administration of Technetium-99m Medronate, a radiopharmaceutical used primarily in bone scans to diagnose various conditions such as fractures, infections, or cancer. This service is priced at $180 for up to 30 millicuries, according to Aurora Sheboygan Prices. This cost reflects the use of advanced imaging technology and the expertise required to safely administer and interpret the results of the scan.

What is Technetium-99m Medronate used for? – Technetium-99m Medronate is used in nuclear medicine to perform bone scans, which help in diagnosing bone-related conditions such as fractures, infections, or cancer.
How does Technetium-99m Medronate work? – The compound is injected into the bloodstream, where it travels to the bones and emits gamma rays that are captured by a special camera to create detailed images of bone structure and function.
Is the procedure safe? – Yes, the procedure is considered safe as it uses a small amount of radioactive material that is quickly eliminated from the body, and the benefits of accurate diagnosis generally outweigh the risks.
How long does the procedure take? – The entire process, including preparation, injection, and imaging, typically takes a few hours, but the actual imaging part usually lasts about 30 to 60 minutes.
Do I need to prepare for the scan? – Patients may be advised to drink plenty of fluids before and after the scan to help flush the radioactive material from their system and may need to avoid certain medications prior to the procedure.
Can I resume normal activities after the scan? – Most patients can resume their normal activities immediately after the scan, but they should follow any specific instructions given by their healthcare provider.
Will my insurance cover the cost? – Coverage for the procedure depends on individual insurance plans, so it is advisable to check with your provider to understand your benefits and any potential out-of-pocket costs.