Procedure Costs

You make choices every day based on quality. And when you’re making big decisions about your health care, comparing quality is even more important.

Quality can vary among doctors and hospitals, based on the number of procedures they've done, complication rates, and other factors. Using quality measures can help you make a more informed decision.

 

Wellmark Tip: If you’re having surgery, take time to research providers. Use these tools and resources as a starting point to help you choose quality care.

Orthopedic Surgery

Procedure or Treatment Average Cost Range
  Low High
Knee Joint Replacement $21,500 $25,600
Hip Joint Replacement $22,350 $29,200
Back and Neck Procedures $5,350 $11,000
Cervical Spinal Fusion $23,250 $50,800
Shoulder and Upper Arm Procedures $11,000 $21,350

General Medical Surgery

Procedure or Treatment Average Cost Range
  Low High
Bariatric Surgery $18,800 $25,300
Renal Failure $6,850 $11,400

Mental Health

Procedure or Treatment Average Cost Range
  Low High
Alcohol Abuse and Dependence $3,250 $4,650
Bipolar Disorder $5,300 $8,850
Depression Disorder $4,200 $8,550

Childbirth

Procedure or Treatment Average Cost Range
  Low High
Vaginal Delivery $6,650 $8,850
Cesarean Delivery $10,200 $15,200
Care of Low Birth Weight Infants (less than 5 lbs, 8 oz) $14,350 $79,900
Care of Normal Weight Infants (greater than 5 lbs, 8 oz) $1,900 $16,900

Cardiology

Procedure or Treatment Average Cost Range
  Low High
Cardiac Catheterization $9,550 $12,100
Cardiac Arrhythmia $4,500 $7,850
Cardiovascular Procedures PTCA $19,800 $29,500
Coronary Bypass $35,300 $49,000
Cardiac Valve Procedures $37,950 $65,200

 

Cost information is based on 2008 data for Wellmark members who received treatment in Iowa and South Dakota.

 
 
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Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield is an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association doing business in Iowa and South Dakota.
 
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