I’m not sure the exploratory part is costing more. I would ask and call billing for more info. looking ahead, Could you potentially switch to an insurance for 2020 with a lower deductible knowing you will use it? I would wait on the lap till 2020 regardless, if you do end up paying the out of pocket max for $6k, at least it’s in the beginning of the year, and you may need more procedures or medical care associated with endo.

I don't think the exploratory component should affect whether the lap is covered, but if your deductible is $6k then you would have to pay that much before insurance kicks in. At least that is how my insurance works.

It can be, yes. I had an exploratory laparoscopy two years ago, during which my doctor found endometriosis plugs and ablated them. My deductible was $6,000 even though my doctor and hospital were in-network. Try speaking with the billing department of your hospital to see if there are any discounts for paying in full, or if they have an installment plan. Many hospitals offer an installment plan, and some are okay as long as you consistently pay some part of it every month (even if it's a very small amount).

I had laparoscopy procedure a few months ago because I had cysts and was diagnosed with late stage endometriosis. Fertility doctor that gave me that diagnosis did not need to do laparoscopy to give me that diagnosis but I am sure he looked at my ultrasound that showed a cyst on my ovary along with background info about my health.

Thank you! What exactly did the ultra sound do or show? I’ve had several ultra sounds done and they can see cysts on my ovaries but endo apparently doesn’t show on ultra sounds. Just curious if maybe I’m hearing different info than you. Thank you for all your help!