Frequent Night Urination in Elderly Men? Understanding Your Next Healthcare Steps in Los Angeles

night urinationelderly menprostate healthurologyinternal medicinelos angeleshealthcare costsself-pay

Frequent Night Urination in Elderly Men? Understanding Your Next Healthcare Steps in Los Angeles

Waking up several times during the night to urinate can be frustrating and worrying, especially for older men who might be concerned about prostate health. It’s completely understandable to feel uneasy when this symptom gradually worsens. You are not alone, and you’re taking a smart first step by seeking clear information. This post will help you understand what might be going on, guide you on which healthcare providers could help, and provide a transparent view of what initial visits and tests might cost specifically in the Los Angeles area. Let’s help you take the next step with confidence.

Who to See for Your Symptoms in Los Angeles

When dealing with frequent night urination, especially as an older man, several types of healthcare providers can help diagnose and manage your symptoms:

  • Internal Medicine Doctors: These are specialists in adult health who can evaluate various causes of frequent urination including prostate issues, urinary tract infections, and general systemic health conditions.
  • Urologists: These doctors specialize in the urinary tract and male reproductive system. They are experts in diagnosing and treating prostate conditions, bladder problems, and related urinary symptoms.
  • Family Practice Doctors: Generalists who can assess your symptoms, perform initial examinations, and refer you to specialists if needed. A convenient and trusted first stop for many patients.

Each of these providers can help determine why you are experiencing frequent night urination and recommend appropriate tests or treatments.

What to Expect: Initial Visits and Estimated Costs

Visit with an Internal Medicine Doctor

  • Procedure: Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: This is a detailed in-person evaluation of your symptoms and health history to guide further testing and treatment.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $225.65 (typically ranges from $153.18 to $298.12)
    This estimate is based on 1,176 providers in Los Angeles.

  • Procedure: Prostate cancer screening; prostate specific antigen test (PSA) (CPT Code: G0103)
    Purpose: A simple blood test to check PSA levels, which can help screen for prostate problems, including cancer.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $40.97 (ranges $22.70 to $59.23)
    Based on 16 providers.

  • Procedure: PSA measurement, total (CPT Code: 84153)
    Purpose: Measures the total PSA in your blood to evaluate prostate health.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $39.30 (ranges $21.60 to $56.99)
    Based on 51 providers.

  • Procedure: Urinalysis, manual test (CPT Code: 81002)
    Purpose: A urine test to check for infections or other causes of urinary symptoms.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $10.76 (ranges $4.08 to $17.44)
    Based on 120 providers.

Visit with a Urologist

  • Procedure: Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: A specialist consultation focused on urinary tract and prostate health to identify causes and treatments.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $247.11 (ranges $155.89 to $338.33)
    Based on 184 providers.

  • Procedure: PSA measurement, total (CPT Code: 84153)
    Purpose: Same PSA blood test, offered by a urologist to screen or monitor prostate health.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $37.00 (ranges $21.58 to $52.42)
    Based on 20 providers.

  • Procedure: Ultrasound scan of prostate through rectum (CPT Code: 76873)
    Purpose: An imaging test that allows the doctor to look at the prostate size and condition using ultrasound.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $361.58 (ranges $242.26 to $480.90)
    Based on 1 provider.

  • Procedure: Biopsy of prostate gland (CPT Code: 55700)
    Purpose: If indicated, taking small tissue samples from the prostate to check for cancer or other diseases.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $423.31 (ranges $255.65 to $590.98)
    Based on 73 providers.

Visit with a Family Practice Doctor

  • Procedure: Prostate cancer screening; digital rectal examination (CPT Code: G0102)
    Purpose: A physical exam where the doctor feels the prostate to check for abnormalities.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $41.34 (ranges $31.01 to $51.68)
    Based on 2 providers.

  • Procedure: PSA measurement, total (CPT Code: 84153)
    Purpose: Blood test to measure PSA for prostate health evaluation.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $28.91 (ranges $21.68 to $36.14)
    Based on 2 providers.

  • Procedure: Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: A comprehensive office visit for symptom evaluation and care planning.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $233.69 (ranges $157.19 to $310.19)
    Based on 799 providers.

How to Interpret the Cost Estimates

Healthcare pricing in the U.S. can seem complicated, much like shopping in a marketplace where prices vary depending on the seller and how you bargain. The cost ranges you see here reflect this:

  • The maximum cost in the range is usually just below the full “charged amount”—this is what doctors and clinics initially ask for before any negotiations or discounts.
  • The minimum cost is often slightly above the “Medicare allowed amount”—this is a standardized rate Medicare pays and is often near what providers break even on or lose money at.

Understanding these ranges can empower you to ask informed questions and find a fair price for your care.

Know Your Rights

You have important protections when it comes to healthcare costs:

  • The Good Faith Estimate (GFE) law requires providers to give you a clear, written estimate of expected charges if you ask for one and schedule services at least 3 business days ahead—especially if you are self-paying or uninsured.
  • Many providers offer self-pay discounts if you ask upfront about “cash prices.” Don’t hesitate to inquire about these to potentially reduce your costs.
  • You have the right to request a detailed, itemized bill and question any charges that seem incorrect or excessive. Ask for CPT codes and billing explanations to better understand what you are paying for.
  • Several states have regulations that protect patients from unfair or “unconscionable” billing practices, particularly for uninsured patients.

Taking action now can help you get answers and relief:

  1. Schedule an Appointment: Contact an Internal Medicine doctor, Urologist, or Family Practice physician in Los Angeles to discuss your symptoms.
  2. Prepare for Your Visit: Write down how often you urinate at night, when it started, any related symptoms, and questions to ask your doctor.
  3. Discuss Costs: When booking, ask about the estimated self-pay cost, any possible discounts, and the process for a Good Faith Estimate.
  4. Stay Positive: You are doing the right thing by addressing your health concerns. Early evaluation often leads to better outcomes.

Need Help Navigating Your Options?

Finding affordable, trustworthy care can be confusing, especially if you’re uninsured or new to the system. That’s why we built Transparent Health: a tool to help you understand your options and find the right provider for your needs.

Disclaimer: This blog post provides general information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalized care.