With so many consumers now paying cash for health care services or using their high-deductible health plans to pay out of pocket, these questions become more and more common.  Consumers are becoming more savvy about purchasing health care services, and need to know up front how much things cost.

(1) How much does an MRI cost? 

Prices vary a great deal. Research indicates that prices for MRI services can range anywhere from $450-$3500, depending on where you go to have the MRI performed.  If you visit a hospital facility for your MRI, you will end up paying a lot more for this diagnostic test that if you visit a stand-alone facility not affiliated with a hospital.   If you offer to pay cash up front at time of service, the provider will most likely offer you an attractive discount.    Three independent outpatient facilities, one in Milwaukee Wisconsin, one in Lawton, Oklahoma, and the other in Indianapolis, IN offer one price for an MRI.  No matter what insurance you have or don’t have.  No matter what type of MRI you need.   They have taken the mystery out of MRI pricing.   Here’s the scoop.

·         DoctorsMRI a diagnostic facility in Lawton, Oklahoma charges patients $599 for an MRI.  No hidden fees.  No surprises.  All MRIs are one price = $599

·         SmartChoiceMRI in Milwaukee, Wisconsin offers patients MRIs for $600.  No hidden fees. No surprises.  All MRIs are one price = $600

·        MRI Solutions in Indianapolis, Indiana offers patients MRIs for $450.  One flat fee.  They do not accept health insurnace.  All MRIs are one price = $450

(2) What is a fair price to pay for an MRI?  

Based on the fact that two facilities in the country are offering one standard price for all MRIs, I would conclude that if you are paying much more than $600 for an MRI – you are probably paying too much.  Try to negotiate with your provider to see if they are willing to reduce the price now that you know how much other facilities are charging for the same service. 

Be sure to check out HealthcareBlueBook, a website that helps determine “fair” prices for health care services.

(3) How do you know if you are being overcharged for an MRI? 

Be sure to ask the health care provider’s office staff questions before services are provided.  Use my list of available tools to comparison shop for an MRI.    If you know what other facilities charge for the same service, this information can be powerful.  Remember, higher prices do not necessarily translate to higher quality.