CT Stonogram Price in the Philippines (2026): Public vs. Private Hospital Rates

Quick answer: A plain CT stonogram in the Philippines costs approximately ₱5,000–₱9,900. Philippine General Hospital (PGH) lists ₱5,900 for outpatient-pay patients, while Chong Hua Hospital charges ₱9,530. Some government hospitals offer lower service rates, including ₱2,200 at PGH, depending on patient classification. Contrast-enhanced urinary tract CT examinations can cost more, and the advertised price may not include every fee.

When it is used: A CT stonogram is a computed tomography scan used mainly to detect stones in the kidneys and ureters. Doctors commonly request it when a patient experiences sudden pain in the side or lower back, blood in the urine, or symptoms suggesting a urinary stone. The examination can identify a stone’s size and location and show signs of urinary obstruction. Unlike a CT urogram, a routine CT stonogram is generally performed without intravenous contrast.

CT Stonogram Prices at Philippine Hospitals

The following comparison brings together published rates from government hospitals, private hospitals, and medical centers.

These figures come from publicly available hospital price lists and schedules. They are not live quotations. Some government schedules were published before 2026, so the actual current amount may differ.

What the hospital prices tell us

Three important patterns emerge from the available prices.

1. Government hospitals are not always the cheapest for paying patients. PGH’s outpatient-pay price is ₱5,900, while the listed outpatient price at Davao Regional Medical Center is ₱9,900. The latter is slightly higher than Chong Hua’s published private hospital price.

2. Patient classification can substantially change the bill. At PGH, the same plain stonogram has different service, outpatient-pay, ward, private, and suite rates.

3. The lowest advertised price may not be the rate available to you. A government service rate, online promotion, or special patient classification may have conditions that are not reflected in a simple price comparison.

CT Stonogram Price at PGH

The University of the Philippines Philippine General Hospital publishes different prices for a plain CT stonogram.

For someone booking as a regular paying outpatient, ₱5,900 is the relevant published comparison. The lower ₱2,200 service rate is a separate billing category. Patients should ask the hospital’s social service or billing department whether that classification applies to them.

CT Stonogram Price at Private Hospitals

Private hospitals may charge different amounts depending on their equipment, radiology services, and billing arrangements.

Chong Hua Hospital, Cebu

Chong Hua Hospital publishes a price of ₱9,530 for an abdomen-stonogram. Its price list explains that the quoted amount covers the procedure and excludes medications and supplies that may be needed.

Novaliches General Hospital, Quezon City

The hospital publishes the following prices:

• Plain CT stonogram: ₱7,500
• CT stonogram with contrast: ₱13,900

The second examination should not automatically be treated as an upgraded version of the first. Confirm the exact protocol required by the referring doctor. Private hospitals may also charge separately for additional services, so ask for an all-inclusive quotation.

Is a Stonogram a CT Scan or an X-Ray?

A CT stonogram is a CT scan, not an ordinary abdominal X-ray. However, the word stonogram is sometimes used loosely in discussions about urinary stone imaging. This can cause confusion between CT stonogram, KUB X-ray, and KUB ultrasound.

These are different examinations. A CT stonogram uses computed tomography to produce detailed cross-sectional images of the urinary tract. A KUB X-ray uses conventional radiography, while an ultrasound uses sound waves.

If your doctor’s request says only “stonogram,” ask the referring doctor or imaging department to confirm whether it means a plain CT stonogram.

This matters because the examination type can significantly affect both the cost and the diagnostic information obtained.

Plain CT Stonogram vs. CT Urogram: Price Difference

One of the most important distinctions is whether intravenous contrast is needed.

Plain CT stonogram

A plain CT stonogram is usually performed without intravenous contrast. It is particularly useful when the main clinical question is whether a patient has a kidney or ureteral stone. The scan can help identify the location, size, and number of stones and signs of urinary blockage.

CT urogram

A CT urogram is a contrast-enhanced examination designed to provide more detailed information about the urinary tract. Doctors may request it when investigating certain causes of blood in the urine, suspected urinary tract abnormalities, or other conditions that require contrast-enhanced imaging.

Because it involves a different protocol, the facility may require additional preparation, including assessment of kidney function when appropriate.

Important: A CT urogram is not automatically better than a plain CT stonogram for detecting kidney stones. The correct examination depends on the clinical question.

CT Stonogram vs. KUB Ultrasound vs. KUB X-Ray

Patients sometimes compare these tests because all three can be used when urinary stones are suspected.

Which examination is best for kidney stones?

Non-contrast CT is highly useful for identifying urinary stones and evaluating their location. Ultrasound avoids ionizing radiation and may be preferred in situations such as pregnancy or when minimizing radiation exposure is particularly important.

A KUB X-ray may be used to follow certain stones that are visible on ordinary X-rays. The least expensive test is not necessarily the right one. Follow the examination specified by your clinician rather than substituting another test based on price alone.

What Is Included in a CT Stonogram Price?

A published CT price may cover the imaging procedure but not every service associated with the visit. Before booking, find out whether the quotation includes the radiologist’s report, image copies, and other necessary charges.

A plain CT stonogram generally does not require contrast material. Do not assume contrast-related fees apply to a routine non-contrast scan.

Is CT Stonogram Cheaper at a Government Hospital?

A government hospital may offer lower rates, particularly for patients who qualify for subsidized services. However, public hospitals have different charging policies, and paying outpatient prices are not necessarily much lower than private hospital prices.

For example:

• PGH lists ₱5,900 for outpatient-pay patients.
• RITM lists ₱9,000 for a plain CT stonogram.
• Chong Hua Hospital lists ₱9,530.

These examples show why patients should compare the actual outpatient rate rather than relying only on whether a facility is public or private. Government hospitals may also require referral documents, scheduled appointments, or social service assessment for certain patient categories.

Does PhilHealth Cover a CT Stonogram?

PhilHealth does not automatically cover a standalone outpatient CT stonogram. Coverage depends on the applicable benefit package, patient eligibility, and whether the examination is performed as part of a covered service or hospitalization.

For outpatient patients

Do not assume that PhilHealth will pay for a CT stonogram simply because the imaging facility is accredited. PhilHealth’s YAKAP primary-care program provides defined services and diagnostic benefits, but a routine standalone CT stonogram should not be assumed to be included.

Ask the facility’s PhilHealth desk whether a specific benefit applies to your examination.

For admitted patients

When a CT stonogram is performed during an eligible hospitalization, its cost may be part of the hospital’s overall bill. An applicable PhilHealth case-rate benefit may reduce the amount payable for the covered admission, subject to benefit rules.

That does not mean the entire CT stonogram fee is reimbursed separately. Remember: The hospital’s published CT price, the PhilHealth benefit, and your final out-of-pocket bill are different amounts.

For current eligibility and benefit details, visit PhilHealth.

Can You Use an HMO for a CT Stonogram?

An HMO may cover medically necessary diagnostic imaging depending on the member’s plan. Before booking, confirm:

• Whether the hospital or imaging center is accredited.
• Whether a doctor’s request is required.
• Whether a Letter of Authorization (LOA) must be approved before the scan.
• Whether CT imaging is covered by your outpatient diagnostic benefits.
• Whether a co-payment, deductible, or annual benefit limit applies.

A hospital accepting your HMO does not automatically mean every CT procedure is covered.

Senior Citizen and PWD Discounts

Eligible senior citizens and persons with disabilities in the Philippines generally qualify for a 20% discount and applicable VAT exemption on covered medical and diagnostic services, subject to statutory conditions. Relevant laws include:

• Republic Act No. 9994 — Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010
• Republic Act No. 10754 — Expansion of Benefits and Privileges of Persons with Disability

Bring a valid senior citizen or PWD identification card and ask the billing department how the discount applies to the examination. The final amount may depend on the facility’s billing structure and whether other subsidized pricing arrangements apply.

Financial Assistance for CT Stonogram in Government Hospitals

Patients who cannot afford the published scan price may ask about financial assistance at a government hospital.

Hospital social service department

Government hospitals may assess patients for service or charity classifications based on their policies and available programs. A lower published service rate does not guarantee that every patient will qualify.

Malasakit Center

Malasakit Centers operate in participating government hospitals and help patients access available medical financial assistance through relevant government agencies. Assistance is subject to eligibility, documentation, and program rules.

Other assistance options

Patients may also inquire about medical assistance through the DSWD, PCSO, or their local government unit.

These programs do not guarantee that every outpatient CT scan will be funded. Ask the hospital social worker which options are available for your circumstances.

Do You Need a Doctor’s Request for a CT Stonogram?

Most hospitals and diagnostic centers require a doctor’s request before performing a CT stonogram.

The request helps the radiology department confirm:

• The correct examination and body region.
• Whether contrast is required.
• The medical reason for the scan.
• Whether additional preparation is necessary.

If you do not have a request, ask the facility whether you need to consult a physician first.

CT Stonogram Preparation: What to Expect

Preparation for a routine plain CT stonogram is usually straightforward.

Before the scan:

1. Bring your doctor’s request and identification.
2. Ask whether fasting is necessary. It is often unnecessary for a routine non-contrast study, but facility instructions take priority.
3. Inform the radiology staff if you are pregnant or might be pregnant.
4. Bring previous ultrasound, CT, or X-ray results if available.
5. Ask whether you should drink water or follow any bladder preparation instructions.
6. Remove metal objects as directed by the staff.

If your doctor has requested a contrast-enhanced CT examination, the preparation requirements may differ.

How long does a CT stonogram take?

The actual CT scan is generally brief and may take only a few minutes once you are positioned. Registration, waiting, preparation, and image processing can take longer.

When are CT stonogram results released?

The release time depends on the facility and whether the examination is routine or urgent. The radiologist must interpret the images and prepare the report. Some facilities provide electronic reports, while others issue printed findings or image copies.

Ask about the expected release time when scheduling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Magkano ang CT stonogram sa PGH?

PGH lists ₱5,900 for outpatient-pay patients undergoing a plain CT stonogram. Its separate service rate is ₱2,200, while higher patient classifications range from ₱6,500 to ₱7,800.

How much is a CT stonogram in a private hospital?

Selected published private hospital examples include ₱7,500 at Novaliches General Hospital and ₱9,530 at Chong Hua Hospital. These are facility examples rather than a national private-hospital price range.

Is a CT stonogram painful?

The examination itself is noninvasive and generally painless. Patients lie on a scanning table while the CT scanner takes images. However, the kidney stone or other underlying condition may cause pain.

Can a CT stonogram detect small kidney stones?

Yes. Non-contrast CT is highly sensitive for many urinary stones, including small stones that may be difficult to identify with ultrasound or ordinary X-rays. Detection still depends on the stone, imaging quality, and clinical circumstances.

Does a CT stonogram require contrast?

A routine CT stonogram for suspected urinary stones is generally performed without intravenous contrast. Contrast-enhanced urinary tract examinations are different protocols and may have different prices.

Is a CT stonogram the same as CT KUB?

The terms are often used for non-contrast CT imaging of the kidneys, ureters, and bladder. However, naming and scanning protocols can vary between facilities, so confirm the examination written on your request.

Is CT stonogram covered by PhilHealth?

A standalone outpatient CT stonogram is not automatically covered. An examination performed during an eligible hospitalization may form part of the covered hospital bill, subject to applicable PhilHealth benefit rules.

Can I get a CT stonogram without a doctor’s request?

Many imaging centers require a doctor’s request. If you do not have one, ask whether the facility can arrange a consultation before booking.

Is fasting required before a CT stonogram?

Fasting is often unnecessary for a routine non-contrast CT stonogram. However, follow the facility’s preparation instructions, especially if a different examination has been ordered.

Is a CT stonogram better than ultrasound for kidney stones?

Non-contrast CT is generally more sensitive for identifying many kidney and ureteral stones. Ultrasound avoids radiation and may be preferred for certain patients or clinical situations. The appropriate examination depends on the doctor’s assessment.

Before You Book: Questions to Ask the Hospital

Use this checklist when requesting a quotation:

1. Is the examination a plain CT stonogram, CT KUB, or CT urogram?
2. What is the total outpatient cash price?
3. Does the quotation include the radiologist’s professional fee and official report?
4. Are printed films, CDs, or digital image copies included?
5. Are emergency or urgent-service charges additional?
6. Do I need a doctor’s request or advance appointment?
7. Can I use my HMO, and is pre-authorization required?
8. Does a PhilHealth benefit apply to my circumstances?
9. Can I receive an eligible senior citizen or PWD discount?
10. When will the scan results be available?

Key price takeaway: For a routine paying outpatient, published plain CT stonogram rates at the selected Philippine hospitals reviewed range from approximately ₱5,000 to ₱9,900. PGH’s published outpatient-pay rate is ₱5,900, while its lower service rate is a separate category. Compare the same examination and patient classification, and request an all-inclusive quotation before booking.

How CareCostPH Checked These Prices

CareCostPH reviewed publicly available hospital rates, government medical center price schedules, and diagnostic service information on October 15, 2026.

The review included official price information from Philippine General Hospital, Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, Chong Hua Hospital, and other Philippine healthcare facilities. Some published schedules predate 2026, so older amounts should be treated as historical reference prices until reconfirmed.

The figures are observed published prices, not a nationwide average. CareCostPH did not independently confirm every facility’s current billing rate by telephone or on-site visit.

Medical and pricing note: Prices can change and may exclude additional charges. Confirm the current rate, examination type, and inclusions directly with the facility. This article is general cost information and does not replace medical advice. Seek prompt medical attention for severe pain with fever, inability to urinate, or other concerning symptoms.