Knee Replacement Cost in Greensboro, NC – 2025 Complete Guide
Facing a knee replacement can be overwhelming—especially when you’re unsure about the cost. If you’re wondering about the cost of knee replacement in Greensboro, NC, you’re not alone. Many patients are surprised by how much prices can vary, even within the same city. This 2025 guide brings together data from trusted sources like the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, CMS.gov, and FairHealth.org to help you navigate your options with confidence.
1. What is the average cost of knee replacement in Greensboro, NC?
The average cost of a total knee replacement in Greensboro, NC ranges from $28,000 to $55,000, depending on the facility, surgeon, and insurance coverage. According to FairHealth.org, the typical out-of-pocket cost for insured patients in the Greensboro area is around $4,500–$8,000, while uninsured patients may face the full procedure cost, which can exceed $50,000.
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS.gov) reports that Medicare reimburses approximately $13,000–$15,000 for inpatient knee replacement procedures in North Carolina, though this amount may not reflect the total hospital charges. Healthcare Bluebook lists a “fair price” for a total knee replacement in Greensboro at approximately $31,000, which includes hospital fees, surgeon fees, and anesthesia.
Costs can vary significantly depending on whether the procedure is performed in a hospital or an outpatient surgical center, and whether it is a partial or total knee replacement. Always request a detailed, itemized estimate before proceeding.
2. What factors affect the cost of knee replacement?
Several variables influence the cost of a knee replacement, both locally in Greensboro and nationwide. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), the main cost drivers include the type of knee replacement (total vs. partial), the surgical setting (hospital vs. outpatient center), the surgeon’s fees, and the type of implant used.
Additional factors include pre-operative imaging, physical therapy, anesthesia, and post-operative care. The presence of comorbidities like diabetes or obesity may also increase costs due to longer hospital stays or specialized care needs. Geographic location plays a role as well—urban centers like Greensboro may have higher facility fees compared to rural areas.
The American Hospital Association notes that bundled pricing models, where all services are included in a single fee, are becoming more common and may offer cost savings. Patients should also consider whether their insurance network includes the facility and surgeon, as out-of-network care can significantly raise out-of-pocket expenses.
3. Does insurance cover knee replacement?
Yes, most insurance plans—including Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance—cover medically necessary knee replacement surgery. According to CMS.gov, Medicare Part A covers inpatient hospital stays, while Part B covers outpatient services and physician fees related to the procedure. Patients are typically responsible for deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments.
Private insurers like Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina and UnitedHealthcare generally cover knee replacements when conservative treatments (like physical therapy or injections) have failed. However, prior authorization is often required. Coverage details, including copays and deductibles, vary by plan.
Medicaid coverage for knee replacement in North Carolina is more limited and may require additional documentation to prove medical necessity. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services recommends working closely with your primary care provider to ensure all criteria are met for approval.
4. Are there payment plans or financing options available in Greensboro?
Yes, many surgical centers and hospitals in Greensboro offer payment plans or financing options to help patients manage the cost of knee replacement surgery. Cone Health and Novant Health, two major providers in the area, offer financial assistance programs based on income and family size.
According to Healthcare Bluebook, many facilities partner with third-party financing companies like CareCredit, which allows patients to pay for medical procedures over time with little or no interest, depending on the plan. Some orthopedic practices also offer in-house financing or sliding scale fees for uninsured or underinsured patients.
Patients are encouraged to contact the billing department of their chosen facility in advance to discuss available options. Always request a written payment agreement to avoid unexpected charges later.
5. How does the cost in Greensboro compare to other North Carolina cities?
Greensboro’s knee replacement costs are generally in the mid-range compared to other North Carolina cities. According to FairHealth.org, the average cost in Charlotte ranges from $30,000 to $58,000, while in Raleigh, the range is slightly lower at $27,000 to $52,000. Asheville and Wilmington tend to have slightly lower costs, often between $25,000 and $48,000.
These differences are influenced by local hospital pricing, surgeon availability, and regional insurance contract rates. The North Carolina Healthcare Association notes that urban areas may charge more due to higher facility overhead, while rural areas may have fewer options but lower base costs.
Ultimately, patients in Greensboro may find competitive pricing if they explore both hospital systems and outpatient surgery centers. Comparing itemized estimates from multiple providers is the best way to ensure value and transparency.
6. What’s included in the knee replacement cost?
The total cost of a knee replacement typically includes several components: surgeon’s fees, hospital or surgical center charges, anesthesia, pre-operative testing (like X-rays or MRIs), the knee implant, and post-operative care such as physical therapy. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, these bundled services can account for 80–90% of the total cost.
Healthcare Bluebook outlines that a “fair price” estimate includes all of these elements, but not every provider offers bundled pricing. Some facilities may bill each component separately, which can lead to unexpected charges. Always ask whether your quote is all-inclusive or itemized.
Post-surgical costs such as follow-up visits, pain medications, and physical therapy sessions (which can range from $75 to $200 per session) may not be included in the initial estimate. Clarify with your provider what’s covered to avoid surprise expenses.
7. Do I need a partial or total knee replacement, and how much does it cost?
Whether you need a partial or total knee replacement depends on the extent of joint damage. According to the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons (AAHKS), a partial knee replacement may be appropriate if only one compartment of the knee is affected, often due to early-stage osteoarthritis.
Partial knee replacements are generally less invasive and have shorter recovery times. They also tend to be less expensive, with costs in Greensboro ranging from $18,000 to $35,000, according to FairHealth.org. In contrast, total knee replacements cost between $28,000 and $55,000, depending on the facility and insurance coverage.
Your orthopedic surgeon will determine the best option based on imaging, physical examination, and your medical history. While partial replacements may be cheaper upfront, they may require revision surgery later if arthritis progresses.
8. How long does the knee replacement process take?
The entire knee replacement process—from initial consultation to full recovery—can take several months. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, the surgery itself typically lasts 1 to 2 hours. Most patients stay in the hospital for 1 to 3 days, though outpatient knee replacements are becoming more common.
Pre-surgical preparation, including imaging and lab work, may take several weeks. After surgery, physical therapy begins almost immediately and continues for 6 to 12 weeks. Full recovery, including regaining strength and mobility, may take 3 to 6 months or longer, depending on your age and overall health.
Patients in Greensboro can access physical therapy through hospital-based programs or independent clinics. Some providers offer home-based therapy, which may be covered by insurance.
9. What is the success rate of knee replacement?
Knee replacement is considered one of the most successful orthopedic procedures. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons reports that more than 90% of total knee replacements still function well 15 years after surgery. Success is measured by pain relief, improved mobility, and patient satisfaction.
Factors that influence success include the patient’s age, weight, activity level, and adherence to post-operative rehabilitation. According to a study published in The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, patients who undergo physical therapy and maintain a healthy weight post-surgery have significantly better outcomes.
In Greensboro, board-certified orthopedic surgeons affiliated with Cone Health and Novant Health report high success rates in line with national averages. Choosing an experienced surgeon and following a structured recovery plan are key to long-term success.
10. Are there affordable alternatives to knee replacement?
Yes, several non-surgical treatments may delay or reduce the need for knee replacement. According to the American College of Rheumatology, options include physical therapy, corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections, weight loss, and medications like NSAIDs.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy and stem cell injections are also gaining popularity, though they are often not covered by insurance and can