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MRI scan is a painless, noninvasive procedure to get images of your brain or other body parts. A cheap MRI in Los Angeles can be as little as between $250 if you pay in cash.
MRI scan costs in Los Angeles
Did you know that MRI, CT, Ultrasound, and X-rays are widely used to diagnose and treat a variety of ailments. Although necessary for adequate treatment, medical scans come with a hefty price tag. Whether insured or uninsured, patients should seek the best care at a reasonable price. Because doctors and insurance agencies work hand in hand, the price often remains high especially for insured patients with high out of pocket costs. Together, we will address what to do if insurance denies a medical scan claim, review prices of common procedures in Southern California, as well as provide tips on how to schedule a medical scan for the best price.
Fighting the waits and denials from Insurance Agencies
Unfortunately, it is common for insurance agencies to deny claims for medical imaging needs. Similarly, it is also common for insurance agencies to make patients wait an unreasonable amount of time to decide whether to approve or deny the claim. In each situation, the patient suffers as crucial time is wasted and the presenting condition worsens. To combat this issue, stand alone medical centers exist to serve both insured and uninsured patients in need of medical imaging services. Furthermore, these facilities offer competitive cash pay prices with savings up to 75% off the current going rate.
Example Cheap MRI Prices in Los Angeles, California
- MRI cost of the Neck: $825 – $2150
- MRI cost of the Foot: $250 – 800
- MRI cost of the Brain: $540 – $1500
- MRI cost of the Breast $750 – $2200
- MRI cost of the Thoracic Spine: $400 – $1,150
If you are interested, you can also check out comparison of prices in California.
To achieve the best price on medical imaging services, it is vital to obtain an order from the doctor. This order is not just a piece of paper, it is an important outline that the medical facility needs to ensure the correct procedure is done. Moreover, once a patient has a doctor’s order it is key to note what type of scan is needed, and the type of machine needed. For example, contrast vs non contrast MRI’s, and 0.3 – 3t machines. Frequently, patients need a non contrast MRI scan on a standard 1.5t machines versus a much more expensive contrast MRI scan on a 3t machine. Knowing the differences between the two is an important cost savings element. Perhaps, the most critical piece of advice is using a third party company who specializes in finding medical imaging clinics. These specialized organizations screen medical imaging facilities for close location and affordable price, as well as schedule and book scans on behalf of the patient.
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How to save money on MRI scan in Los Angeles?
- Take your doctor referral to the facility that offers you the best price for MRI scan
- Shop around across 4-10 facilities to find the best deal for you, focus also on free-standing imaging facilities
- Pay in cash to save 40-80% of the cost (HSA counts)
- Consider doing this MRI in the large metro area (Los Angeles, Chicago, Dallas) that have more competitive rates
- Find the best cheap MRI scan prices in your area >
