What Is the Cost of an MRI? We Believe Quality Care Should Be Accessible

If your doctor has recommended imaging to detect, diagnose or monitor a health condition, you may be concerned about the cost of an MRI scan. Though prices can vary significantly depending on where you go, the type of scan you need and whether you have insurance, it is possible to find affordable high-quality imaging services. 

In this article, we’ll explore the cost of MRI scans and the factors that affect pricing, so you can make an informed decision and find high-quality imaging at a reasonable price. 

Has your doctor recommended an MRI? At the Raleigh Bone and Joint Surgery Clinic, we’re proud to have Wake County’s first and only Open Bore MAGNETOM Verio 3T MRI, which provides greater comfort and a quicker exam while delivering the high-resolution images we need to deliver timely diagnosis and treatment. We invite you to request an appointment today. 

What is the Average Cost of an MRI Scan?

The cost of an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan – a non-invasive diagnostic tool that creates highly detailed, 3D images of the structures inside your body – varies significantly depending on location and provider.  

The typical cost of an MRI scan in Raleigh, NC:

• Hospital MRI: Approximately $1,000–$2,500 or more
• Independent imaging center: Approximately $600–$1,000
• Raleigh Bone & Joint: $300–$600, depending on insurance coverage 

You may wonder why there’s such a large gap in pricing. 

This is because hospitals have higher operating costs and facility fees than other providers. Outpatient imaging centers and specialized orthopedic clinics usually have less overhead, which allows them to offer more affordable pricing for the same service.

How Much Do Different Types of MRIs Cost?

The final cost of your MRI will also depend on the area of the body being examined. Common MRIs include those for the:

• Knee 
• Shoulder
• Hip 
• Spine 
• Brain 

Costs may range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars for each of these. Some scans are more complex than others and may require further imaging or contrast material, which can increase the cost.

You may have heard of something called a whole-body MRI, which is often marketed to consumers as a preventive tool to screen for hidden diseases before symptoms arise. These screenings usually cost $2,500 or more and in most cases are not covered by insurance.

It’s important to note that whole-body MRI screening is different from medically necessary diagnostic imaging. Physician-ordered, targeted MRIs focus on a specific body part and medical issue. They help doctors evaluate and diagnose your condition and answer specific diagnostic questions.

Radiology experts have pointed out that whole-body MRIs can be problematic, because they may identify findings that require additional testing, even when no serious medical problem exists. This type of rapid screening does not provide the same level of detail as MRIs specifically tailored to evaluate a particular body part or medical concern.

What Factors Impact the Cost of Getting an MRI Scan?

Several factors can influence the cost of getting an MRI scan, including those previously mentioned:

• Provider or type of facility, such as a hospital imaging department, independent imaging center or specialty orthopedic practice. This usually has the biggest impact on cost.
• Area of the body being scanned; more complex imaging studies involving multiple areas of the body or specialized imaging techniques cost more than routine scans.

Other contributing factors include:

• Geographic location; prices may vary by region and healthcare market.
• Use of MRI contrast dye (or contrast agent), depending on the area of the body being scanned. Scans that require a contrast agent cost more because they require additional materials and imaging time.
• The necessity for follow-up testing or specialist consultations, in some cases

A final factor is the MRI technology being used. 

We offer competitive, cost-effective rates for this in-house MRI imaging service. 

Can Insurance Cover the Cost of an MRI Scan?

Health insurance typically covers the cost of MRI scans when they are:

• Considered medically necessary to evaluate or manage your health condition 
• Ordered by your physician

For example, in the case of:

• Sports injuries
• Chronic joint pain
• Ligament or tendon tears
• Back, neck and spine conditions
• Neurological symptoms

You may still be responsible for deductibles, copays, coinsurance or out-of-network charges. You should verify coverage with your health care provider before scheduling your exam. 

The Bone and Joint Surgery Clinic is Your Home for Convenient, Cost-Effective and High-Quality MRI Scans 

While MRI costs can vary widely based on the facility, technology, insurance coverage and type of scan you need, it is possible to find high-quality imaging services at an affordable price.

At the Raleigh Bone and Joint Surgery Clinic, we believe that quality care should be accessible. We are committed to providing you with convenient, cost-effective, high-quality MRI scans and transparent pricing.

At our orthopedic clinic, you’ll find the first and only Open Bore MAGNETOM Verio 3T in Wake County, with a larger opening that can more easily accommodate patients of different sizes and help relieve anxiety for those who feel apprehensive in small spaces.

We encourage you to request an appointment today.