How much is an MRI with Blue Cross insurance?
Asked by: Prof. Kieran Wiegand | Last update: December 25, 2025Score: 4.7/5 (37 votes)
How much does an MRI cost in Blue Cross?
Patients insured by United are charged $995, Humana's $988, and Blue Cross' $464. In other words, depending on their insurance company, some patients may wind up paying $500 more for an identical procedure at the same facility. As is typical of health care pricing, they often won't know the price beforehand.
Will insurance pay for an MRI?
Insurance coverage varies by plan, but most health insurance policies cover at least part of the cost of an MRI if it's medically necessary. However, you may need to meet your deductible first.
How much does an MRI cost in Minnesota?
On MDsave, the cost of an MRI without Contrast in Minnesota, ranges from $700 to $1,116.
How much does an MRI cost in Massachusetts?
On MDsave, the cost of an MRI with and without Contrast in the Boston Region, ranges from $811 to $1,876.
How to find medical procedure costs with Blue Cross Blue Shield
Why is MRI so expensive even with insurance?
This high cost is partly due to the complexity of the machinery, which uses powerful magnetic fields and is cooled by liquid helium, consuming a significant amount of electricity. Additionally, the expertise required to operate and interpret MRI scans contributes to the high cost.
Does an MRI cost out-of-pocket?
The cost of an MRI can vary widely depending on factors such as location, facility, and whether insurance is involved. Without insurance, an MRI can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.
What is the rough cost of an MRI?
Number of Body Parts: A Full-body MRI (starting £1500) will cost more than scanning one (starting £299), two (starting £499) or three body parts (starting £699).
What is cheaper than MRI?
Cost: CT scans are almost half the price of MRIs. The average computed tomography scan costs around $1,200 while an MRI is about $2,000. Speed: CT scans take much less time than MRIs. The exact time required depends on whether you need a contrast dye for the procedure, but MRIs always require more time for the scan.
Why won't my insurance cover an MRI?
Insurance denials for MRI scans or surgeries can happen due to various reasons, such as pre-authorization requirements, medical necessity disputes, or administrative errors. It's important to remember that denial doesn't necessarily mean you won't receive the necessary care.
What is the cheapest way to get an MRI?
To save money on an MRI, shopping around for the best price by comparing costs at different facilities is essential. Independent imaging centers often offer lower rates than hospitals, and many provide cash payment or self-pay discounts, especially for those without insurance or with high deductibles.
What if I can't afford an MRI?
Contact the imaging center or hospital: Reach out to the facility where the MRI is scheduled to discuss your financial situation. They may have financial assistance programs, payment plans, or discounts available for individuals who cannot afford the full cost upfront.
Will BCBS cover an MRI?
Cost of an MRI with Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) insurance varies based on your plan, network status, and deductible. For in-network providers, out-of-pocket costs typically range from $100 to $500, while the full cost can be $1,000 to $3,000 or more without insurance.
Can you negotiate the price of an MRI?
Direct negotiation
Another way to save money on your MRI is to negotiate directly with the imaging center. Depending on the location, they may be able to give you a lower rate. It pays to shop around because you'll know what other providers are charging, and one center may offer you a lower rate to earn your business.
How do I find out how much an MRI costs?
- Head/Brain MRI Cost: $550 - $900.
- Cervical/Neck MRI Cost: $700 - $1,100.
- Cardiac MRI Cost: $350 - $2,800.
- Pelvis MRI Cost: $550 - $1,450.
- Ankle MRI Cost9: $550 - $1,450.
- Abdominal MRI Cost: $350 - $750.
- Lumbar MRI Cost10: $500 - $600.
Why are MRIs so expensive with insurance?
High overhead costs
Hospitals have high overhead costs, including staffing, equipment, and facilities. These costs can be passed on to patients in the form of higher imaging costs. Additionally, hospitals may also charge facility fees, which are an additional charge on top of the cost of the imaging itself.
How to get an MRI approved by insurance?
In the majority of instances, obtaining a referral from your doctor is typically required for insurance approval of an MRI. It is crucial to have a thorough conversation with your doctor regarding the specific reasons for needing the MRI and to request a comprehensive explanation within the referral.
How much does an MRI scan cost privately?
Direct payment: The price for MRI depends on the area of the body that needs to be scanned and whether intavenous contrast needs to be given. Prices start from 250 euro and reductions are given if patients need multiple body parts scanned or for medical card holders.
How to reduce the cost of MRI?
In comparison, independent diagnostic centers are able to charge less for MRIs because their overhead expenses are lower and those facilities are usually open only during regular business hours on weekdays. The price ranges for MRIs vary depending on where you go.
How to get an MRI asap?
Urgent medical need: If your healthcare provider determines that you have an urgent medical need for an MRI, they may expedite the process to ensure you receive timely care. This could be due to symptoms indicating a serious condition, such as severe pain, neurological issues, or suspected internal injuries.
Can I pay for an MRI without a referral?
Can I get an MRI without a referral? While it is possible to get an MRI without a referral, medical referrals are important because your insurance may deny coverage without one, and diagnostic imaging can be expensive if you're paying out-of-pocket.
How do I find out my copay blue cross blue shield?
Your BCBS ID card may include a list of the co-pay amounts you can expect to pay for common services, like a doctor's visit or trip to the emergency room.
Does Blue Cross Blue Shield pay for hospital stays?
Coverage for unlimited inpatient hospital care days is provided to members under both individual and Medicare Plus Blue Group PPO plans. For individuals the member's cost sharing and coverage conditions are determined by Blue Cross. For groups, the group determines the member's cost sharing and coverage conditions.
How much does a CT scan cost with Blue Cross Blue Shield?
How much does a CT scan cost with Blue Cross Blue Shield? Insurers can decide to cover a CT scan based on a patient's condition, where the scan takes place and how many scans are needed. You can expect Blue Cross Blue Shield to pick up some of the cost, leaving you to pay between $400 and $700.