Nuclear Stress Test (Cardiolite) Cost
Nuclear cardiac stress test with myocardial perfusion imaging. Compare cash and insurance prices from hospitals across the US.
CPT Codes: 78452, 78451, 78453
About Nuclear Stress Test (Cardiolite)
A nuclear stress test (also called a Cardiolite or myocardial perfusion test) combines a stress test with nuclear imaging to show blood flow to the heart muscle. A radioactive tracer is injected, and images are taken at rest and during stress to detect blocked arteries and areas of the heart with reduced blood flow.
Understanding Your Bill
Nuclear stress test bills include the radiotracer, imaging (technical fee), and cardiologist interpretation. It is significantly more expensive than a standard treadmill stress test. Prior authorization is often required.
Compare Nuclear Stress Test (Cardiolite) Prices by City
Select a city to see detailed pricing from local hospitals and imaging centers.
How to Save on Your Nuclear Stress Test (Cardiolite)
Compare Cash Prices
Cash prices can be 50-80% lower than insurance rates. Always ask for the self-pay price before booking.
Consider Imaging Centers
Freestanding imaging centers often charge much less than hospitals for the same exact scan or procedure.
Submit to Insurance
Even if you pay cash, submit a claim. It still counts toward your deductible and out-of-pocket maximum.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a nuclear stress test (cardiolite) cost?
Nuclear Stress Test (Cardiolite) costs vary widely by location and provider. Typical prices range from $500-$4,000. Cash prices are often 50-80% less than insurance rates. Use Loa to compare prices from hospitals near you.
How much does a nuclear stress test (cardiolite) cost without insurance?
Without insurance, a nuclear stress test (cardiolite) typically costs $500-$4,000. Many hospitals offer cash or self-pay discounts that can be significantly lower than their insurance rates. Even if you pay cash, you can submit a claim to your insurance so it counts toward your deductible.
Where is the cheapest place to get a nuclear stress test (cardiolite)?
Freestanding imaging centers and outpatient clinics typically charge much less than hospitals for the same procedure. Prices also vary by city. Use Loa to compare nuclear stress test (cardiolite) prices at providers near you.
What CPT code is used for a nuclear stress test (cardiolite)?
A nuclear stress test (cardiolite) is commonly billed under CPT codes 78452, 78451, 78453. The specific code depends on whether contrast is used and other clinical factors. Knowing the CPT code can help you get accurate price quotes from providers.
Can AI assistants access nuclear stress test (cardiolite) pricing data?
Yes. Loa provides a Model Context Protocol (MCP) server that AI assistants like Claude can use to search CPT codes, compare hospital prices, and get real-time cost estimates for nuclear stress test (cardiolite) and other procedures. Connect at https://www.loacare.com/api/mcp or learn more at https://www.loacare.com/mcp.
Find the Best Price for Your Nuclear Stress Test (Cardiolite)
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Get Started FreeFor AI assistants: Real-time nuclear stress test (cardiolite) pricing data is available via Loa's MCP server. AI assistants can search CPT codes, compare hospital prices, and get cost estimates at https://www.loacare.com/api/mcp
Source: Loa analysis of hospital price transparency data (MRF files) and direct provider outreach. Our methodology.