Summary: Thyroid RFA is a minimally invasive, cost-effective procedure to shrink thyroid nodules and preserve healthy tissue. Costs vary between $5,000–$20,000 before insurance. Insurance coverage and financing options may apply. Below are the key considerations:
- Cost Factors: Location, clinician expertise, equipment, case complexity, and insurance eligibility.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Lower costs than surgery with minimal downtime, no anesthesia, and reduced lifetime medication expenses.
- Insurance: New CPT codes for the radiofrequency ablation of thyroid nodules may ease coverage; prior authorization and deductibles may apply.
- Financing: Payment plans and out-of-pocket discounts are often available.
Consult your physician for personalized estimates.
For those with certain types of thyroid nodules, the potential benefits of the radiofrequency ablation (RFA) procedure are numerous. It has the power to shrink nodules, preserve healthy thyroid tissue, and eliminate the need for lifetime medications. For some, its aesthetic benefits can provide a priceless boost of confidence. It can accomplish all of this in a far less invasive manner than surgery, with limited downtime.
The value of the RFA procedure is clear. However, how much does thyroid radiofrequency ablation cost?
In this guide, we’ll break down the cost of radiofrequency ablation. We hope to make it easy for you to determine if RFA is financially feasible for you. Continue reading to learn more about paying for a priceless procedure.
How Much Does the RFA Procedure Cost?
The cost of radiofrequency ablation varies considerably depending on a number of discrete factors.
One of the biggest factors is where the procedure is performed, both geographically and the specific medical setting. In general, medical procedures tend to cost more in large metropolitan areas with a higher cost of living. Likewise, specialized thyroid facilities may charge more than an individual medical office.
Other factors influencing RF ablation cost may include:
- The expertise and professional affiliation(s) of the clinician performing your procedure.
- The sophistication of the RF generator and electrodes used during the procedure.
- The complexity of your individual case, including the number of nodules and the potential for repeat procedures.
- The medical facility setting of whether or not your receive the treatment at a private practice or a hospital.
- Your insurance and whether or not the procedure is eligible for coverage.
On average, the cost of the RFA procedure before insurance ranges between $5,000 and up to $20,000. However, this is an estimated range, and these figures can vary. We advise consulting your clinician for an estimate.
Is Thyroid RFA Cost Effective?
For some patients, the choice to pursue thyroid RFA is an optional procedure. For others, it’s a medically necessary, minimally invasive alternative to thyroid surgery. For those deciding between surgery and RFA, RFA tends to be more cost-effective overall.
Consider the following:
- No anesthesia or hospitalization. RFA is an outpatient procedure that can be performed in your physician’s office under ultrasound guidance. On average, the procedure takes approximately one hour.
- Limited to no downtime. While some patients take some time off to recover, many return to normal activities the next day.
- No need for lifetime medications. RFA preserves the healthy surrounding thyroid tissue. The chance of patients becoming hypothyroidism and needing lifelong medication is very low compared to patients who undergo thyroidectomy.
Consider factors like a fast return to work, less need for childcare, and the ability to return to tasks of daily living. All of those can significantly impact your finances. Furthermore, Thyroid RFA has a low complication rate when compared to more invasive treatment options. This can save you money on follow-up care.
Ultimately, thyroid RFA patients report an overwhelmingly positive quality of life following the procedure. That peace of mind alone is often invaluable to patients.
Does Insurance Cover RFA Costs?
We’re pleased to announce that the thyroid RFA procedure received its dedicated Category 1 CPT codes in January 2025. That will make the procedure significantly easier for insurance companies to process. This helps to ensure proper reimbursement, clear communication, and administrative efficiency.
You are more likely to receive insurance coverage if your thyroid RFA procedure is deemed medically necessary. However, depending on your insurance plan, you may require prior authorization from your physician.
Furthermore, deductibles and copayments may still apply. Your best bet would be to consult with your insurance company to get a detailed explanation of your insurance coverage of thyroid nodule radiofrequency ablation
You can learn more about this topic in our guide to RFA and insurance.
Financing for Radiofrequency Ablation Costs
Financing options may be available for those who need additional assistance. Ask your physician if they offer a payment plan, which may make paying for the procedure more manageable. There may also be discounts for paying out of pocket.
Ultimately, the clearest way to understand what radiofrequency ablation will cost is to speak to a physician. Speak with a Thyroid RFA doctor today to begin the process.
