Do you want to know “how much does a CT scan cost without insurance?” You’re in the right place.
Patients all over the United States are wondering the same thing. Many people are worried about CT scan costs and how they are going to pay their medical bills.
This article will uncover the CT scan cost without insurance. We’ll also answer the questions “how much is a CT scan with insurance?” and “does insurance cover CT scans?”
Plus, we’ll take a look at the different types of CT scans and what factors affect their prices.
What Is A CT Scan?
A CT (computed tomography) scan is a non-invasive, painless body scan used to diagnose various diseases and abnormalities.
The scan uses specialized imaging techniques to allow doctors to see inside patients’ bodies. Radiation and computer software creates 3D images of the structure of the body, including bones, muscles, and organs.
Your doctor may recommend a CT scan if you’re presenting symptoms of a problem that can’t be seen with the naked eye.
For example, you may be referred to a scan to look for internal bleeding, blood clots, subtle fractures, and obstructions. What’s more, your doctor can use a CT scan to diagnose abdominal pain, some diseases, and muscle disorders.
They may also use a CT scan to examine organ damage or injuries, identify infections, monitor cancer treatment, and understand unexplained pain.
CT scans are done with contrast or without. Contrast is used when the scan focuses on soft tissues such as organs and blood vessels.
What’s the procedure and what will happen at the appointment? The whole check usually takes between 10 – 30 minutes. During the scan, you’ll lay completely still on a bed. You don’t need to do anything else.
How Much Is A CT Scan Without Insurance?
The cost of a CT scan varies considerably and can cost up to $6,750.
The average cost of a CT scan without insurance costs $3,000. However, there are many factors that influence the price.
Types Of CT Scans And How Much They Cost
Here are a few examples of CT scan costs on different body parts.
|
Body Part |
Average Cost |
|
Head or brain |
$825-$4,800 |
|
Neck or spine |
$1,000 – $9,300 |
|
Chest |
$675 – $8,600 |
|
Abdomen |
$1,750-$9,500 |
|
Pelvis |
$1,700 – $10,200 |
|
Shoulder, wrist, arm, or hand |
$625 – $8,400 |
|
Foot, ankle, leg, or hip |
$640 – $11,200 |
** Prices of the above with insurance: Free or much lower than stated above.
What Influences the Cost Of A CT Scan?
The price depends on the body part, your location, your insurance plan, and which facility you’re in.
Body Part
CT scans can be performed all over the body. And the price will vary according to where the scan is needed. See the table above for more information.
Unfortunately, it’s difficult to put an exact price on the scan for each body part. This is because the cost depends on many other factors. It’s best to contact your provider directly to find out the actual cost.
Location
The city you live in changes the cost of your CT scan. In an area with a low cost of living, the scan will be noticeably cheaper in comparison to an area with a high cost of living.
Plus, if you live somewhere with fewer medical facilities, the prices can skyrocket due to a lack of services. Sometimes traveling to a different area can pay off.
What’s more, the amount you need to pay can vary within your local area. Be sure to call places in advance to check their prices.
Insurance
Of course, having health insurance will affect the amount you need to pay towards a CT scan.
Most insurance companies require you to meet an annual deductible. This is the amount you need to pay for health services before your insurance pays for you. If you haven’t reached it, it’s likely you’ll have to pay most of the fee.
And even if you have paid your deductible, you’ll probably still need to contribute towards the cost. Most insurances have coinsurance rates. This means your insurance will pay a percentage and you’ll pay the rest.
If you don’t already have insurance, get in touch with our team at Enhance Health to find a plan that suits your needs so you’re not caught off-guard in the future.
Facility
CT scans administered in hospitals are typically more expensive than those in outpatient centers.
Some outpatient centers deliver a lot of CT scans. If this is the case, it’s likely they will be cheaper. If you’re worried about paying a high sum, you can shop around to see which facility offers the best deal.
The national average cost of a CT scan is $3,275. However, the average cost in an outpatient facility is $525, and $4,750 in an inpatient facility.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will I get the results of my CT scan?
Typically, results are available within 24-48 hours. You may also receive a diagnosis, however, you may need more tests. Ask your doctor for more information about what happens after getting your results and they’ll be happy to answer your questions.
Are there alternatives to getting a CT scan?
Sometimes, it’s possible to diagnose a problem with an x-ray. They use electromagnetic energy beams to create 2D images of bones, organs, and internal tissues. An x-ray can identify fractures and internal tumors and cost up tp $1,000. The average price without insurance is $260-$460.
Similarly, an ultrasound costs up to $1,000 with average prices of around $400. They use sound waves to produce images of the inside of the body. Ultrasounds are famous for being used during pregnancy, but can also be used to diagnose problems with the female reproductive system, heart, blood vessels, liver, bladder, and kidneys.
Another alternative option is to have an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan. MRIs use strong magnetic fields, magnetic gradients, and radio waves to produce high-quality images of the body. They allow medical professionals to check for a host of abnormalities in the organs. The average cost without insurance is around $1,300.
Generally speaking, CT scans are more expensive than x-rays and ultrasounds because they provide a lot more information. However, they’re usually cheaper than MRI scans.
Your doctor will advise on which type of scan is best for your medical scenario.
Conclusion
Your health is the most important thing. And if you need medical assistance, money shouldn’t be a barrier to getting access to proper medical care and services. Unfortunately, many people are burdened by the costs of healthcare in the US.
To avoid unpleasant situations in the future, make sure you have insurance. Here at Enhance Health, we do all the hard work. You can compare insurance companies to find the ultimate best-priced health plan for you.
