Trying to get MRI scan and cost of CT scans is challenging. Even when you have the information, it's not clear what exactly you might be paying for. Does the price include contrast? What about the Radiology report? And what if you need additional testing? This post will be a work in progress, but I hope it sheds some light on what MRI and CT scan costs include and don't include...
Prices vary by body part and medical condition
Most MRI and CT scan exams each have different prices. For example, an MRI of the Brain may not cost the same as an MRI of the Knee. Your test might also be two different tests bundled into one order. A CT scan to look for kidney stones is actually two scans - a CT scan of the Abdomen and a CT scan of the Pelvis.
Price will change if you are going to have contrast/dye
Pricing medical procedures using a multi-tier cost scheme is very common in medicine. For example, most MRI and CT scan be done in three different ways. This changes the cost of the scan. In order of increasing cost they are:
- Without contrast - images are taken without administering any IV contrast/dye.
- With contrast - images are taken only after the IV contrast is given.
- With and without contrast - images are taken before the IV contrast is given and then again after wards.
Some facilities (particularly hospitals) will also charge for the actual performance of placing the IV. For uninsured patients this cost is usually bundled into the price of the rest of the scan as opposed to a separate charge.
Many CT scan exams are done with IV contrast. IV contrast for MRI scans is usually given if you have had surgery to
the area begin scanned, history of cancer or if looking for infection. Even for those tests that are ordered without contrast, sometimes during the scan the Radiologist may see something "unusual" or detect a tumor or infection and then ask for the contrast to be given.
Note, there is no additional cost if you get oral contrast to drink. That is, if you are given oral contrast for a CT scan of the Abdomen and do not receive the IV contrast it is considered a CT Scan of the Abdomen without contrast.
The Radiology report is included
MRI and CT scan costs include the official Radiologist interpretation. This includes comparing to older scans even if done at another hospital or imaging center. Your doctor receives a copy of the report.
Copies of the CD or films
Sometimes you'll be asked to take a CD or films of your MRI or CT scan
to your doctor to review. Most facilities will give you a copy, if
requested, free of charge.
Call back for additional images may not be included
You won't be charged for call backs if due to technical issues or if you were unable to complete the exam because of pain or claustrophobia. However, if it is for "more testing", then yes, there will be additional costs.
Simplifying it for you...
As you can see it is hard to pin down the actual cost of an MRI or CT scan. Unfortunately, much of healthcare works this way.
We've taken a different approach with our Radiology shopping site and are trying to simplify MRI and CT scan prices for you. Our prices include the test and report. There are no extra charges for contrast/dye injections. We think this is a good first step in reforming how medical services are priced and purchased. We hope you do too.
Do you have any suggestions for us? Please leave your comments below: