Medicare.gov

Ambulatory surgical centers

Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) covers facility fees related to approved surgical procedures you get in these centers

  • Covered by Part B

  • After the Part B deductible , you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount (other costs may apply)

Description

Ambulatory surgical centers are outpatient facilities that perform surgical procedures. In most cases, ambulatory surgical centers release patients within 24 hours.

Costs

After you meet the Part B deductible , you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount to both the ambulatory surgical center and the doctor(s) who treat you.

You pay nothing for certain preventive services (like a screening colonoscopy) if your doctor or other health care provider accepts assignment. However, you may have to pay other costs associated with the preventive services. For example, if your doctor removes a polyp during a screening colonoscopy, you may have to pay 15% of the Medicare-approved amount.

You also pay all facility fees for non-covered procedures you get in ambulatory surgical centers.

Compare the price of procedures done in ambulatory surgical centers and hospitals.

Ask your doctor or healthcare provider how much your test, item, or service will cost.

Your doctor may recommend services that Medicare does not cover or offers too frequently. This could end up in additional costs for you. Make sure to ask your doctor about the reasons for these recommendations and what Medicare will actually cover.

Specific amounts you could owe depend on:

  • Other insurance you may have

  • How much your doctor charges

  • If your doctor accepts assignment

  • The type of facility

  • Where you get your test, item, or service