When your doctor refers you for an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), you may have a lot of questions about what it means for your health and how much an MRI may cost you. The fact is, an MRI may not cost as much as you think, and it can save you money in the long run by providing real answers to your pain or condition, rather than treating your pain symptoms that could add up to cost more in the end. Understanding the cost of an MRI doesn’t have to be complicated, and this guide will help break it down easily.
What Factors Affect MRI Costs?
The cost of an MRI may vary based on several key factors that can be considered when planning for an MRI scan.
Facility Type:
Where you get your MRI can impact the cost of your scan. Hospitals service many patients in the community with multiple service lines. As a result, hospitals typically have higher overhead costs that can increase the overall cost for imaging from a higher fee structure – whether billing to your insurance or self-pay Independent imaging centers, like American Health Imaging, specialize in one medical service line – medical imaging, and offer the same image quality at substantially lower prices—we typically save patients up to 60% compared to hospital pricing.
Type of MRI Scan:
The body part being examined affects the complexity and cost of the scan. Basic scans of extremities, such as knees, generally cost less than complex imaging of the spine or abdomen, which may take more time to obtain images for a comprehensive view.
Contrast Requirements:
If your doctor needs contrast dye to enhance images, this typically adds $100 to $300 to the procedure cost, but provides crucial diagnostic information. Exact contrast costs may vary.
Insurance Coverage:
Health insurance typically covers medically necessary MRIs requested by your provider to determine the cause of your pain and make a diagnosis. Depending on your individual insurance plan, you may have out-of-pocket expenses, such as deductibles and copays, that can impact the total cost of your MRI scan. In-network facilities help you manage higher MRI costs. Always contact your insurance provider to verify if the imaging center is in-network with your insurance.
General Cost Estimates:
- Without insurance: An average MRI can cost around $2,000, but the cost can range from $400 to $12,000, depending on the location and complexity of the scan.
- With insurance: Out-of-pocket costs typically range from $50 to $500, depending on your plan and deductible status
MRI Scanners to Fit Your Needs
At American Health Imaging, we utilize state-of-the-art technology that delivers high-quality scans you and your provider can rely on, without increasing costs.
Open MRI Scanners
Open MRI scanners offer comfort for patients with claustrophobia or larger body types, featuring a more spacious design that helps reduce anxiety.
Closed MRI Scanners
Closed MRI Scanners provide the highest image quality and fastest scan times, representing the gold standard for most diagnostic needs.
Advanced Technology:
Our MRI scanners feature advanced technology that reduces scan noise and enhances clarity while maintaining reasonable costs.
MRI Costs: Hospital vs. Outpatient Imaging Centers
Your healthcare provider may recommend an outpatient imaging center because they offer significant advantages and benefits for you. Here are a few reasons you may choose an imaging center over a hospital:
Outpatient centers like American Health Imaging offer more than just cost advantages:
- Up to 60% savings compared to hospital pricing
- Global billing – your imaging scan, the radiologist fee, and contrast (if required) are all included in your total cost
- In-network with 99% of major health insurance plans
- Same-day and next-day scheduling with shorter wait times
- Curbside parking and avoid navigating a complex hospital campus
- Specialized staff dedicated to imaging procedures
Hospitals’ outpatient imaging typically cost more and include:
- Higher overhead from full-service operations
- Emergency and inpatient department obligations – imaging needs for emergency or critical patients take priority over outpatient imaging patients, and your appointment can be bumped accordingly
- Complex billing with separate facility fees, radiologist fees, contrast fees, and/or scan fees
- Less efficient scheduling systems
Insurance Coverage and Savings
One of the leading factors that determines your MRI costs is your insurance coverage. Whether your doctor recommends a hospital or an outpatient center for your MRI scan, you have a choice where to have the MRI. Consider choosing an outpatient center that is in-network with your insurance.
Key Insurance Factors
- In-network providers can save you thousands compared to out-of-network providers
- Deductibles and copayment requirements vary by plan
- Some plans require pre-authorization for MRI procedures
- Coverage may differ between plan types and providers
Maximizing Benefits
- Always verify your provider is in-network
- Understand your deductible status
- Ask about pre-authorization requirements
- Consider timing when approaching annual out-of-pocket limits
Additional Cost Considerations
- Sedation Services: Some patients may require sedation for comfort, which involves additional costs for medications, specialized care and extended recovery time.
- Professional Reading: Additional costs may be included with hospital imaging services when a third-party radiologist is required to read your scan. Factors affecting cost include study complexity, the level of subspecialty expertise required, comparison with previous studies, and the urgency of the results.
Tips for Managing Your MRI Costs
Talk with Your Provider
Ask about the specific type of MRI scan you may need and whether contrast is required.
Compare Scan Prices
Research costs at different facilities in your area. Shopping around can save you a substantial amount of money.
Check with Your Insurance
Verify your benefits, confirm the facility is in-network, and understand your out-of-pocket costs before scheduling an appointment. American Health Imaging also assists patients in understanding their insurance coverage and expected out-of-pocket cost at the time of their MRI scan.
Consider Timing
Are you nearing your annual deductible or out-of-pocket maximum? Timing your MRI can reduce your costs.
Making MRI Services Affordable
At American Health Imaging, we believe cost should never prevent you from getting essential healthcare. Our commitment includes:
- Significant savings with patients, typically saving up to 60% compared to hospitals
- Broad insurance acceptance with 99% of plans in-network
- Transparent pricing and CareCredit payment options
- Advanced technology that reduces scan times by up to 50% to fit with your busy schedule
- Comfortable options for all patient types
Early detection and accurate diagnosis are crucial for your health outcomes. By choosing American Health Imaging, you’re selecting a partner committed to exceptional diagnostic services at significantly lower costs than hospitals, ensuring you get the answers you need at a price you can afford.
Ready to schedule your MRI? Contact American Health Imaging today to discuss your needs and learn how we can help you access quality diagnostic imaging at an affordable rate.