Why Does My Cough Not Stop? A Guide to Your Next Healthcare Steps in Anaheim, CA

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Why Does My Cough Not Stop? A Guide to Your Next Healthcare Steps in Anaheim, CA

Having a cough that just won’t go away for several weeks can be frustrating and worrying—especially when you don’t smoke and aren’t sure why it’s lingering. It’s completely understandable to feel concerned and want answers. You’ve taken an important first step by seeking information about why your cough may persist and what to do next.

This post is designed to guide you through understanding who might be the best type of doctor to see in Anaheim, CA, what kinds of exams or tests you may expect, and an overview of estimated costs if you are paying out of pocket. We want to help you feel empowered and prepared to take the next step toward getting the care you need.

Who to See for Your Symptoms in Anaheim, CA

If your cough has lasted several weeks without improvement, a few types of healthcare providers could be a good place to start. Each type addresses persistent cough symptoms from a slightly different angle:

  • Internal Medicine Doctor: These physicians specialize in diagnosing and managing a wide range of adult health conditions, including ongoing coughs. They can thoroughly evaluate your symptoms and order tests to identify serious causes.

  • Pulmonary Disease Specialist: A pulmonologist focuses on lung and airway problems. If your cough is related to asthma, bronchitis, or other lung conditions, this specialist has deep expertise in lung function and treatment.

  • Family Practice Doctor: Family practitioners provide general care for all ages. They can diagnose many common causes of cough, offer treatment plans, and coordinate referrals if specialized care is needed.

Starting with one of these providers is a practical way to get a proper diagnosis and begin treatment.

What to Expect: Initial Visits and Estimated Costs

Below are typical procedures you might encounter when visiting each provider type in Anaheim, CA. These include office visits and common diagnostic tests related to cough.

Visit with an Internal Medicine Doctor

  • Procedure: Established Patient Office Visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: A focused office visit to review your ongoing symptoms and medical history. This visit helps the doctor decide if further testing or treatment is needed.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $210.72 (ranges from $158.04 to $263.40)
    This estimate is based on 630 providers in the Anaheim area.

  • Procedure: New Patient Office Visit, 45-59 minutes (CPT Code: 99204)
    Purpose: A comprehensive first-time visit to thoroughly evaluate your cough and overall health.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $278.61 (ranges from $208.96 to $348.26)
    This estimate is based on 223 providers.

  • Procedure: Diagnostic Exam of Lung Airway Using an Endoscope (CPT Code: 31622)
    Purpose: A specialized test where a small camera inspects your airways to find causes of cough. Usually done if the cough is complex or severe.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $441.55 (ranges from $331.16 to $551.94)
    This is based on 1 provider offering this test locally.

Visit with a Pulmonary Disease Specialist

  • Procedure: Established Patient Office Visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: Follow-up or ongoing care specifically focused on lung conditions causing cough.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $209.86 (ranges from $157.39 to $262.32)
    This estimate is based on 71 providers.

  • Procedure: X-Ray of Chest, 2 Views (CPT Code: 71046)
    Purpose: A chest X-ray helps spot infections, lung inflammation, or other causes of cough.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $76.66 (ranges from $43.07 to $110.25)
    Available from 6 providers.

  • Procedure: Test to Measure Expiratory Airflow and Volume (CPT Code: 94010)
    Purpose: This breathing test checks how well your lungs move air, useful for detecting asthma or COPD.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $44.01 (ranges from $22.85 to $65.18)
    Offered by 23 providers.

  • Procedure: Inhalation Treatment for Airway Obstruction or Sputum Production (CPT Code: 94640)
    Purpose: Treatment that delivers medicine directly to your lungs to help open airways.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $28.32 (ranges from $12.62 to $44.02)
    Available at 9 providers.

  • Procedure: Test to Examine How Well the Lungs Exchange Gases (CPT Code: 94729)
    Purpose: Checks how effectively oxygen passes from lungs into the blood, important for lung diseases.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $72.00 (ranges from $53.62 to $90.39)
    Provided by 44 providers.

Visit with a Family Practice Doctor

  • Procedure: Established Patient Office Visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: General office visit to discuss and evaluate your persistent cough among other health factors.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $210.93 (ranges from $158.20 to $263.66)
    Based on 720 providers.

  • Procedure: X-Ray of Chest, 2 Views (CPT Code: 71046)
    Purpose: Detect underlying chest issues that could cause persistent cough.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $67.10 (ranges from $38.99 to $95.21)
    Offered by 71 providers.

  • Procedure: Routine Electrocardiogram (ECG) (CPT Code: 93000)
    Purpose: Records heart function in case heart issues contribute to your symptoms.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $35.80 (ranges from $19.04 to $52.56)
    203 providers offer this test.

  • Procedure: Blood Sample Collection (CPT Code: 36415)
    Purpose: Blood tests can help rule out infections or other causes related to your cough.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $12.19 (ranges from $9.14 to $15.24)
    Available at 281 providers.

  • Procedure: Influenza Virus Detection Test (CPT Code: 87804)
    Purpose: Checks if the flu virus is causing your symptoms.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $28.71 (ranges from $19.36 to $38.07)
    25 providers offer this test.

How to Interpret the Cost Estimates

Think of healthcare pricing a bit like shopping in a market where prices can vary depending on the vendor and how much you negotiate. The prices you see here reflect typical costs charged for these services in Anaheim, but actual bills might be different.

  • The maximum cost in the range is close to what providers actually charge (“charged amount”). This is the amount doctors ask for their services but doesn’t mean you will always pay this full amount.

  • The minimum cost is generally just above the amount Medicare would pay (“Medicare allowed amount”). Providers might accept these lower rates as break-even or less, especially for insured patients or discounted cash payments.

These ranges show you both ends of that spectrum and can help you anticipate financial conversations when you seek care.

Know Your Rights

Under U.S. law, if you pay out-of-pocket rather than through insurance, you have the right to request a Good Faith Estimate (GFE) from your doctor:

  • A GFE is a legal document your doctor must provide if you ask for it or schedule services at least 3 business days in advance. It outlines expected charges so you’re not surprised.

Many providers also give discounts for paying in cash upfront, though this isn’t required by law. It’s always okay to ask:
“What is the cash price if I pay upfront?”

You can ask for a detailed, itemized bill after your visit. If any charge feels incorrect, duplicated, or unreasonable, you have the right to dispute it. Also, requesting CPT codes and billing details is within your rights. Some states have extra protections against unfair billing, especially if you don’t have insurance.

Taking action now can put you on the path to relief and clear answers:

  • Schedule an Appointment: Contact a Family Practice, Internal Medicine, or Pulmonary Disease doctor in Anaheim to discuss your persistent cough.

  • Prepare for Your Visit: Write down all symptoms, how long you’ve had them, any triggers, and questions you want to ask the doctor.

  • Discuss Costs: When booking, ask about self-pay prices and confirm the estimated costs to avoid surprises.

  • Stay Confident: Seeking professional care is the right choice. You’re advocating for your health, and help is available.

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 is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult a healthcare provider for personalized care.