An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) procedure can cost anywhere from $400 to over $12,000. Booking an MRI on Sesame guarantees you the best self-pay price on MRI appointments near you. The specific cost of an MRI usually depends on where you live and what part of the body is being scanned. Additionally, paying for MRI procedures without insurance can be more expensive than paying for one if you’re insured. Depending on the insurance company, the deductible of your insurance plan, or your insurance status, the out-of-pocket price range of diagnostic imaging services can vary significantly. That’s why it’s important to understand the average cost of an MRI nationally and in your specific region to make a more informed and financially sound decision. Plus, if you’re uninsured or underinsured, you’ll likely find that prices on Sesame for imaging like MRIs are far more affordable than anywhere else. The average cost of an MRI with contrast on Sesame is $452, while the average cost of an MRI without contrast is $387.
Magnetic resonance imaging (or MRI) is a non-invasive medical imaging technique that uses powerful magnetic fields and radio waves to take high-quality pictures of soft tissue and other structures inside your body. These diagnostic tests help health care providers examine the inside of your body without requiring surgery or incisions.
MRI scanners are large magnets that create strong magnetic fields around the part of the body being imaged. The magnetic field made by an MRI machine is used to create a detailed image of the inside of your body that doctors can use to assess and diagnose your condition. In contrast to X-ray machines or computed tomography (CT scan) machines, MRIs do not use X-rays or ionizing radiation.
Some conditions an MRI scan may help detect include:
- Brain injury
- Cancer
- Signs of a stroke
- Heart Disease
- Spinal disk problems
- Bone and joint injuries
- Internal organ health
- Soft tissue inflammation
MRI is more capable of assessing bone marrow and soft tissue than X-rays or CT scans.
What are the different types of MRIs?
MRI procedures are generally split into three categories:
- MRI with contrast
- MRI without contrast
- MRI with and without contrast
The MRI scan with and without contrast involves two different scans of the same part of the body - one with a contrast agent and another without the contrast agent.
Depending on the area of the body being scanned, or the purpose of the scan, your radiologist may elect to use a contrast agent to enhance the imaging. Contrast agents may be used to improve the visibility of blood vessels, tumors, inflammation, or certain organs.
Specific locations of MRI procedures include:
- Brain MRI
- Breast MRI
- Cardiac MRI
- Chest MRI
- Pelvic MRI
- Abdominal MRI
- Upper Extremity (Shoulder, Arm, Wrist, or Hand) MRI
- Lower Extremity (Hip, Leg, Ankle, or Foot) MRI
