Summary: Thyroid Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) offers a minimally invasive alternative to surgery, but insurance coverage depends on factors like medical necessity and specific plans. A new CPT code effective in 2025 may streamline coverage. Consult your doctor and insurer for personalized options.
For many Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) candidates, learning there is a minimally invasive alternative to thyroid surgery is a relief. They’re thrilled about the quick return to activities, success rate, and preservation of healthy thyroid tissue. However, as they weigh their treatment options, one question lingers:
Is thyroid radiofrequency ablation covered by insurance?
The answer is more complex than a simple “yes” or “no.” However, a new CPT code, 60660 is in effective starting January 2025. It might help more patients receive coverage. Continue reading to learn more about how patients like you pay for their thyroid RFA treatment.
How Much Does Thyroid RFA Cost?
Out of pocket, the cost of thyroid radiofrequency ablation varies significantly. Factors that contribute to procedure cost include:
- The cost of living in the geographical area where you undergo the procedure.
- The specific office or surgical center where you undergo the procedure.
- The experience level and institutional affiliations of your clinician.
- The number of thyroid nodules that need to be treated.
- The size and complexity of your thyroid nodules.
- Whether or not you require multiple RFA sessions to achieve your treatment goals.
Thus, the cost of your thyroid RFA procedure may range from $5,000 on the low end to as high as $20,000 on the high end. The best way to determine the cost of your procedure is to speak to your thyroid doctor. They can speak to you about payment plans and patient assistance programs. They may have other ways to make your procedure more affordable.
With that said, most patients lead with one important question. Does insurance cover thyroid RFA treatment?
Is Thyroid Radiofrequency Ablation Covered by Insurance?
This is a wonderful time to discover the thyroid radiofrequency ablation procedure. Increasingly, more and more providers are covering this minimally invasive, highly effective treatment option.
As thyroid radiofrequency ablation is a newer procedure in America, this has not always been the case. However, substantial clinical evidence has proven that thyroid RFA is often an effective alternative to surgery.
In fact, as of early 2025, thyroid RFA will have a dedicated Current Procedural Terminology (CPT code). Previously, insurance companies only processed thyroid RFA as an “unlisted endocrine procedure.” Now, there will be codes with specific language describing the procedure and its applications.
This milestone demonstrates that thyroid RFA is a high-quality, research-backed treatment. The existence of a code will make billing, communication, and processing more streamlined and efficient. Thus, patients seeking coverage will likely face fewer hurdles during the process.
Will Thyroid Radiofrequency Ablation be Approved by my Insurance?
In almost all cases, your insurance will cover the cost of your initial thyroid exam. With the new Category 1 CPT code for the radiofrequency ablation of thyroid nodules, Medicare and qualifying insurance plans will use CPT code 60660 for the coverage of your treatment. Whether or not your thyroid RFA is covered by insurance or how much it would be covered depends on your insurance plan and your specific case.
Some patients may require preauthorization to receive coverage. This is essentially documented proof from a physician that the thyroid RFA procedure is medically necessary. Reach out to your insurance company for specific guidance on pre-authorization, documentation, and other requirements.
Find Thyroid RFA Covered by Insurance
Many thyroid RFA practitioners work with reimbursement specialists to ensure their patients can afford their care. We can help connect you with a thyroid doctor dedicated to helping patients afford treatment. Learn more about Thyroid RFA and begin the process today.
