What comes to mind when you hear 2D echo? For many of us, heating this term for the first time seems like an advanced medical test. But for those with heart problems it is a common procedure. Find out more about the test and be familiar with the 2D echo price in Philippine hospitals.
The Philippine News Agency’s recent bulletin on heart disease still puts it as the top cause of death in the country. Contributing to about 18% of the total death cases, it has become a perennial problem only beating cancer on the top spot. This is why you might be hearing heart tests like 2D echo even more in the coming years.
Why Do I Need It?
In our research, people who do not seem to have any symptoms may still be at risk of having a heart attack. Otherwise, a doctor may request this test if you have:
- Pain in the chest area with shortness of breath (Heart Care Sydney)
- Palpitation of the heart
- Blood clot problem
- Coronary artery disease (risk)
- Family history of heart attack or stroke
What Is This Test?
It is a special kind of ultrasound that specifically creates images for the heart. It can provide visual images in terms of the valve functions, the volume of the heart and all other damages and concerns that may be present (Michigan Medicine). A doppler feature is used to monitor the blood flow in the heart. It uses sound waves to see the blood movement in the organ. Usually, this is recommended by cardiologist for patients with high risk of heart attack, hypertension and stroke even if you currently do not have any symptoms.
How Much is 2D Echo in Hospitals?
the 2D echo price in the Philippines can range from Php 2,500 to Php 9,000 depending on the age of the patient and device features. Doctors will prescribe a test based on your personal needs.
On the other hand, the test for babies and children are more expensive. The average price for this age group is Php 4,000 which is in contrast to the cheaper cost for senior citizens and PWDs.
Prices by Type
Based on the data we gathered, various 2D echo versions are available in hospitals. See the rates per each type with a separate reader’s fee.
| Type | Price (Php) | Reader’s Fee (Php) |
|---|---|---|
| Plain | 2,000 | 500 |
| With Doppler | 2,500 | 300 |
| 3D Echo | 9,800 | 700 |
| Treadmill Stress | 14,000 | 1,000 |
We conducted a research to see the average rates for the test. Here are the prices of 2D echo in some hospitals in the Philippines.
| Hospital | Rates |
|---|---|
| Lung Center of the Philippines (plain) | ₱2,640 |
| Medicus Medical Center | ₱4,200 |
| New World Diagnostics (with doppler) | ₱2,555 |
| Baguio General Hospital | ₱2,650 |
| Makati Medical Center | ₱9,300 |
Where to Have the Test
Major hospitals have their heart tests available even for walk in patients. Some may also offer a Doppler feature which is suitable for patients requiring a more accurate image of blood flow direction and speed. The cheapest 2D Echo price that we have seen starts from Php 1,900 in a public hospital. For a start, you may compare the prices of PGH, East Avenue Medical Center and Philippine Heart center. When it comes to private diagnostic tests, we found a diagnostic center offering Php 2,035 for the plain version which is also affordable.
Free medical services are only available to qualified patients. Usually, they are given to indigent and the poor. Charity sections of a government hospital may provide this service without charge.
Do you have a health card? Many HMO companies do not cover 2D echo especially the test with doppler. This is a specialized procedure that may involve a higher price rate compared to other heart diagnostic tests.
See: Common Heart Tests and Prices
Types of 2D Echo Test
The plain and the one with Doppler are the two most common types of Echocardiogram. Hospitals offer both tests for patients with heart disease or for preventive measures.
In cases when the patient is confined, Philhealth may cover the general expenses. Always provide your Philhealth details for the final billing statement.
Stress Test
Some versions may be done together with a stress test. This is a separate feature and you may need to inquire first about the price. Contact the hospital or diagnostic center where you will have your examination.
Note that there may be a slight difference of price rates based on the patient’s status. In patient and outpatient rates may differ by up to 1,000 since inpatient would be more expensive.
Package rates are also available mostly in heart specialization hospitals. They may also come as part of an executive check up plan for those with high risk conditions.
Pedia Patients
For children and babies, the price range of 2D echocardiogram is around Php 4,500 to Php 5,500. Depending on the hospital, the total cost may incur an additional rate of Php 1,500 for doctor’s fee.
References:
*10 Heart Tests Your Doctor Might Order, and What They Mean
About the Author: The MedicalPinas team publishes articles to help Filipinos find info on various medical services and their prices.
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