How to Save on a Liver Fibroscan Test

A liver FibroScan test is used to assess liver health. The non-invasive imaging technique utilizes transient elastography technology to measure the stiffness of the liver. It is a much safer alternative to liver biopsy. Your doctor may order a liver FibroScan test if you have a chronic liver disease or are at high risk of cirrhosis. A liver FibroScan can help your doctor determine the exact reason for elevated liver enzymes.

The Process  

The patient is asked to lie on their back with their right arm raised above their head. The doctor/technician places a small handheld device on the patient’s skin over the liver. The device emits soundwaves into the liver. The velocity at which sound waves propagate is measured to assess liver stiffness. To ensure accurate results, your technician/doctor may take multiple readings. The procedure typically takes 5-10 minutes. 

Preparation

Patients are instructed to fast for 3-4 hours before a liver FibroScan test as fluid or food in the stomach can affect the accuracy of test results. Your doctor may ask you to discontinue certain medications temporarily before a liver FibroScan test. On the day of the test, wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the right side of your abdomen. 

Benefits of a Liver FibroScan Test

Unlike a liver biopsy which involves making an incision to collect a tissue sample, a liver FibroScan test uses sound waves to measure liver stiffness. The painless procedure can help doctors diagnose liver diseases at an early stage, allowing for timely expert intervention, which improves patient outcomes. In patients with hepatitis B or C, a FibroScan test can help doctors monitor the progression of the chronic liver condition. 

When performed by an expert, a liver FibroScan test is safe. The procedure uses sound waves, instead of X-rays, eliminating the risk of radiation exposure. Liver FibroScan is more cost-effective than many other invasive procedures. A liver FobroScan test is performed as an outpatient procedure, and the patient can go home the same day. 

How to Save on a Liver FibroScan Test

Liver FibroScan test price can vary depending on a number of factors including location, type of testing center, technology used, physician or specialist fee (if expert services are used to interpret test results), coverage offered by the patient’s insurance policy, and purpose of the scan. 

Here are our top tips to save on a Liver FibroScan test.

Shop Around

Get estimates from at least three testing centers and compare them to choose the right provider. Remember independent imaging centers usually charge less for a liver FibroScan test than private hospitals. 

Ask About Cash Discounts

If you do not have a health insurance policy or your insurance policy does not cover a FibroScan test and you plan to pay for the procedure out of pocket, look for a testing center that offers discounts to patients who pay upfront. 

Look for Promotional Offers

Many testing centers and hospitals in Delhi run promotional campaigns during October (liver awareness month) and offer discounts on FibroScan tests. 

Inquire About Payment Plans 

Some providers offer payment plans helping patients spread the cost of a liver FibroScan test over a period of time. Consider using a payment plan to reduce the financial burden of an imaging test.  

Consult Your Insurance Company

Talk to your insurance company to check whether your health insurance policy covers a FibroScan test. Make sure you choose an in-network testing center. If your insurance policy does not cover a FibroScan test, try negotiating liver FibroScan test price with the insurer or the chosen testing center. 

Bundle Screnning Tests 

If your doctor recommends multiple diagnostic tests, look for a testing center that offers package deals to patients who want to get more than one test. 

Star Imaging & Path Lab Ltd. is an accredited testing center. Trained in the use of different imaging devices, our technicians have years of experience performing a range of imaging tests. To make an appointment, call 011-4560-2200.