The cost of ECG tests can vary depending on where you live, but in the Philippines, it typically costs between PHP 150 to PHP 2420.
Knowing how much this important diagnostic tool will cost allows you to budget accordingly and gives you peace of mind that your healthcare needs are taken care of.
The Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) test is a simple yet crucial diagnostic tool that helps doctors understand the electrical activity of the heart.
By providing insight into the heart’s rhythm, rate, and overall function, an ECG can detect various heart conditions and guide appropriate treatment.
What is an ECG Test?
An ECG test records the electrical signals in your heart. It’s a non-invasive, painless procedure where small electrode patches are attached to the skin of your chest, arms, and legs.
These electrodes are connected to a machine that traces your heart activity onto paper.
While the heart contracts and relaxes to pump blood, it produces electrical impulses. These impulses, when recorded by the ECG machine, create waves that can be analyzed by healthcare professionals to identify any abnormalities.
What Does an ECG Test Measure?
An ECG measures the timing and strength of these electrical signals as they pass through each part of the heart. The test can provide information about:
- Heart rate: If the heart beats too fast, too slow, or irregularly.
- Heart rhythm: The regularity of the heartbeats and the sequence of the electrical impulses.
- Heart structure: The size and position of your heart chambers, and the presence of any damage to the heart’s muscle.
Why Would You Need an ECG Test?
An ECG test can detect and monitor conditions such as:
- Arrhythmias: Irregularities in the heart rate or rhythm.
- Coronary heart disease: Blockages in the heart arteries that could lead to a heart attack.
- Previous heart attacks: Damage from previous heart attacks can change the electrical patterns of the heart.
- Other conditions: Problems with the valves or chambers of the heart, or other conditions like high blood pressure, electrolyte imbalances, or drug side effects.
Doctors may recommend an ECG if you have symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, fainting, or rapid, irregular heartbeats.
An ECG might also be performed as part of a routine health exam, or to monitor the effectiveness of certain heart medications.
Benefits of ECG Tests
ECGs play a vital role in early detection and management of heart disease, potentially preventing serious complications like heart attacks.
The test can provide immediate results, guiding quick decisions on further diagnostics or treatment.
Furthermore, it’s a safe procedure with no risks associated with the test itself.
Risks of ECG Tests
While the ECG is a safe test, risks lie mainly in the interpretation of results. Misreading an ECG can lead to misdiagnosis, causing unnecessary anxiety or treatment.
This risk is minimized when the test is interpreted by experienced healthcare professionals.
Questions to Ask your Doctor Before Getting an ECG Test
To ensure that you receive accurate information and advice on this procedure, here are some essential questions that you should ask your doctor before getting an ECG test.
- Why do I need to have an ECG test? What are you looking for?
- How should I prepare for the test? Are there any specific instructions I need to follow?
- Will I need to change my diet or medication regimen before the test?
- What will happen during the test? Can you walk me through the process?
- Is the test painful? What can I expect to feel during and after the procedure?
- How long will the test take? Will I need to take time off work?
- Are there any risks or side effects associated with the test?
- When and how will I receive the results of the test?
- Will someone explain the results to me, or will I need to schedule a follow-up appointment?
- What happens if the test results are abnormal? What would be the next steps?
- Can the ECG test detect all heart conditions, or might I need additional tests?
- How often should I get an ECG test done?
- Is there anything else I should know about the ECG test?
Cost of an ECG Test in the Philippines
The cost of an ECG test in the Philippines can vary widely depending on the facility. On average, one can expect to pay between PHP 150 to PHP 2420.
Some public hospitals may offer it at a lower cost or even for free.
Below is the price list chart:
| Hospital | Procedure & Price |
| Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center (Baguio, Benguet) | ECG PHP 300.00 |
| Dr. Jose N. Rodrigues Memorial Hospital (Caloocan City) | ECG Regular PHP 200 |
| ECG Senior/PWD PHP 160 | |
| Far North Luzon General Hospital and Training Center (Apayao) | ECG PHP 150.00 |
| Jose Reyes Memorial Medical Center (Sta. Cruz, Manila) | ECG PHP 210.00 |
| Makati Medical Center (Makati City) | ECG (CVDL – HEART STATION) PHP 1,080.00 to PHP 2,100.00 |
| HOUSE CALL FEE ECG (CVDL – HEART STATION) PHP 2,420.00 | |
| ECG HOUSE CALL FEE (CVDL – HEART STATION) PHP 1,420.00 | |
| ECG HOME CARE (HOME CARE & HOSPICE) PHP 2,420.00 | |
| Kaiser Medical Center (Nationwide) | 12 Lead ECG PHP 450.00 |
| Megalab Diagnostics Center (Batangas) | 12 Lead ECG PHP 300.00 |
| New World Diagnostics (Nationwide) | ECG [AUTOMATIC] PHP 375.00 |
| The Medical City PH (Pasig City, Metro Manila) | ECG Bedside PHP 1,426.98 |
| Perpetual Succor Hospital (Sampaloc, Manila) | ECG PHP 250.00 |
| Medicus Medical Center (Iloilo) | ECG 12 Leads PHP 693.00 |
| ECG 12 Leads with LL2 PHP 787.50 | |
| ECG 15 Leads PHP 808.50 | |
| Metro Iloilo Hospital & Medical Center, Inc. (Iloilo) | ECG PHP 682.50 |
| West Visayas State University Medical Center (Iloilo) | ECG PHP 600.00 |
| Western Visayas Medical Center (Iloilo) | ECG Fee PHP 200.00 |
| Chong Hua Hospital (Cebu) | ECG PHP 797.00 |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I eat or drink before my ECG test?
Yes, you can eat and drink before an ECG test. However, avoid drinking cold water immediately before the test as it can cause changes in the ECG pattern.
2. How long does an ECG test take?
An ECG usually takes about 5 to 10 minutes. The preparation, which involves placing electrodes on the skin, can take about 10 minutes.
3. Do I need to do anything special to prepare for an ECG test?
No special preparation is needed for an ECG. You may be asked to remove any jewelry or other objects that may interfere with the test.
Also, men might need to have small areas of their chest shaved to ensure a good connection between the skin and the electrodes.
4. Is an ECG painful?
No, an ECG isn’t painful. The electrodes may feel cool when they’re first placed on your chest, and you might feel some discomfort when they’re removed, similar to removing a bandage. But the test itself doesn’t cause any pain.
Tips for Potential Patients
- Verify insurance: Check with your health insurance plan to see if ECG tests are covered.
- Follow instructions: Make sure to follow any instructions the doctor has given you prior to the test, such as avoiding cold drinks and taking off jewelry or other objects that may interfere with the test.
- Ask questions: Ask questions about the procedure and the results so you can understand what is happening during and after the test.
- Look for second opinion: If you don’t feel comfortable with the results of an ECG, ask your doctor for a second opinion or further tests.
- Plan for the future: Finally, remember to take heart health seriously and listen to any advice your doctor may give you. Regular check-ups and tests can help diagnose potential problems early on, potentially saving lives.
An ECG test is a safe and painless procedure that can provide valuable information about the health of your heart.
Take charge of your cardiac wellbeing today by scheduling an appointment with your health care provider and getting tested.
With the help of modern technology, you can keep an eye on your heart’s health and take charge of a healthier tomorrow.