High-tech computed tomography (CT) scans typically take between 15 and 30 minutes, providing detailed images of blood vessels, bones, soft tissues, muscles, and organs. These images help your care team make a clear diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan. However, this advanced imaging comes at a price. How much does a CT scan cost? That depends.
Fortunately, you have choices. If you’re looking for quality imaging that’s gentle on your wallet, South Jersey Radiology has you covered at 11 convenient locations.
What drives CT scan costs
Several factors determine the cost of a CT scan in New Jersey and across the United States. These include:
- Body part scanned. The type of scan you undergo varies based on the area scanned. So does the price. For example, a head CT may cost more than an abdominal CT scan.
- Indirect expenses. Administrative costs, utilities, leases, and other indirect expenses all contribute to the overall cost of a CT scan. Without these behind-the–scenes costs, there’s nowhere to go for your CT scan and no electricity to power the CT scanner.
- Professional fees. Imaging technologists guide you through the imaging process and work to capture the requested images. Radiologists then review and interpret the images to detect various health problems and help with treatment planning. Both of these experts get paid for their services. Without them, no one can capture or interpret your images.
- Technical fees. Purchasing MRI machines and constructing specialized rooms for CT scans can be costly. Ongoing maintenance and upgrades ensure the machine’s performance and image quality remain optimal over time.
Why does a CT scan cost more at a hospital?
Hospitals often charge more for a CT scan than independent imaging centers. In some cases, the fee at a hospital is nearly double what you would pay at a standalone imaging center. This price difference is one reason many choose independent imaging centers, such as SJRA, for affordable CT scans.
Here are a few reasons CT scans often cost less at independent imaging centers.
Less overhead
We operate on a smaller scale, offering a single, streamlined service: medical imaging. As a result, we have fewer people to pay, smaller utility bills, and less facility maintenance.
More efficiency
Because we don’t perform surgery or other medical procedures, we’re very efficient. All of our systems, resources, and staff members are in place to ensure you have a quality imaging experience, and we go out of our way to deliver that every day.
No resource drains
Hospitals often lose money in the ER, where they serve patients who may not be able to pay for care. When this happens, hospitals make up for the lost income elsewhere. Sometimes, they increase the cost of a CT scan or other imaging service to make up for lost revenue in the ER. Independent imaging centers don’t have ERs or other departments that increase the price of imaging.
Price transparency
Price transparency is crucial in healthcare. Hospitals often have complex negotiated rates with insurance companies, making it hard to know the cost of your CT scan in advance. This can lead to unexpected charges when you go for imaging. In contrast, freestanding imaging centers typically offer one easy-to-understand bill that covers all costs, eliminating surprises like separate fees for the radiologist’s report or other services. Choosing a freestanding center can simplify your financial planning and reduce the stress of unexpected medical expenses.
View our available CT appointments at a location near you today
How do I get the best price on my CT scan?
The average cost of a CT scan without insurance is approximately $2,000. However, patients can face total costs ranging from $300 to $6,750. Factors affecting this cost include geographic location, the body part being scanned, insurance coverage, and other relevant factors.
If you want your CT scan to cost as little out-of-pocket as possible, try these tips.
Ask your provider
Many in the medical field know where to turn for the most cost-efficient CT scan. So, ask your healthcare provider for a recommendation.
Get a second opinion
It’s okay to price shop for medical services. Call your local hospital and a few standalone imaging centers. Explain which body part you need examined and the type of insurance you have to find out the cost of your CT scan.
Look into financial assistance
Some imaging centers offer financial assistance programs or payment plans for CT scans and other services. These help you afford essential medical imaging services when money is tight.
Understand your insurance
Deductibles, copays, and network restrictions all affect your out-of-pocket costs for medical care. Review your insurance policy and contact your insurance provider to ensure you get the best price on your CT scan.
Use flexible spending accounts (FSAs) or health savings accounts (HSAs)
An FSA or HSA lets you use pre-tax money to pay for CT scans and other medical expenses. With one of these, you can pull money out of your paycheck for medical expenses, and it is never taxed.
Choose the best option
Once you’re aware of the available options, select the one that best meets your needs.
Additionally, web-based tools can help you avoid excessive healthcare costs. On sites such as Fair Health Consumer, you can find out the average cost of CT scans and other health services in your area. Armed with this knowledge, you can quickly tell if an imaging center’s price is low or high.
So, how much does a CT scan cost?
Before heading to your local hospital for a CT scan, it’s essential to know how much that CT scan will cost. This knowledge empowers you to choose the best place for your screening.
- Factors that affect the cost of your CT scan include the equipment, personnel, and resources needed to perform the exam. Your price may also increase based on the body part being examined.
- Independent imaging facilities, like SJRA, often offer CT scans at lower prices. This is possible due to benefits, such as our streamlined services and lower overhead.
- There are several steps you can take to ensure you get the best price on your CT scan. Getting a second opinion and understanding your insurance are just two ways to protect your wallet.
Want to save money and time with your next CT scan? Call SJRA at (888) 909-7572 or schedule an appointment online with our board-certified, subspecialty radiologists.
Frequently Asked Questions
The high cost of a CT scan at hospitals can be attributed to several factors, including the technical fee, professional fee, and facility fee. CT machinery and the construction of dedicated rooms for the machines are expensive. Additionally, the expertise of the technologists interpreting the images adds to the cost. Many hospitals also increase CT scan prices to cover expenses related to emergency room care or treating patients who cannot pay their medical bills.
Independent outpatient imaging centers, like South Jersey Radiology, offer lower prices compared to hospitals. These centers focus solely on imaging services, resulting in cost savings. At SJRA, CT scans may cost up to 60% less than hospital facilities, while prioritizing patient care and experience.
The true cost of a CT scan varies depending on the specific area of the body being scanned and can range from $270 to $5,000. On average, without insurance, a CT scan costs around $2,000.
CT scans are a medical imaging technique used to monitor the body’s internal structure. They provide detailed images of various parts of the body, including blood vessels, bones, soft tissues, muscles, and organs. CT scans can help diagnose conditions such as bone and joint problems, internal bleeding, tumors, infections, and brain injuries.
MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scans offer similar results to CT scans but utilize magnets instead of ionizing radiation to capture images. CT scans are better suited for imaging larger areas of the body, while MRI scans provide more detailed images and the ability to diagnose a wider range of diseases. CT scans are faster and generally more affordable than MRI scans. The choice between the two scans depends on the specific medical needs and considerations of each patient.
Preparing for a CT scan is usually straightforward. You can eat, drink, and take medications as usual on the day of your scan, though refraining from eating for 3-4 hours prior to the scan is advisable. Specific preparation instructions may vary depending on the body part being scanned and whether contrast dye is required. Remove any metal objects before the scan. During the scan, you will lie on a table that moves through the scanner while images are captured. It’s essential to remain as still as possible to ensure clear images. After the scan, the results will be shared with your doctor, who will have time to review them prior to your follow-up with them.
Choosing an independent outpatient imaging center, like SJRA, can significantly reduce costs compared to hospitals. At SJRA, prices for CT scans are up to 60% less than those at hospitals. As an outpatient center specializing in imaging services, SJRA prioritizes patient care and experience.
You can schedule a CT scan appointment at any of the following locations:
• Haddonfield Office – Haddonfield, NJ
• Marlton (Greentree) Office – Marlton, NJ
• Medford Office – Medford, NJ
• Moorestown Office – Moorestown, NJ
• Mount Laurel Office – Mount Laurel, NJ
• Route 73 (Voorhees) Office – Voorhees Township, NJ
• Turnersville Office – Turnersville, NJ
• Voorhees (Carnie Blvd) Office – Voorhees Township, NJ
• Sewell (Washington Twp) Office – Sewell, NJ
• West Deptford Office – West Deptford, NJ
• Willingboro Office – Willingboro, NJ
Our team of board-certified, subspecialized radiologists is highly experienced in reading and interpreting CT scans. You can learn more about our radiologists by visiting our physician profiles.