MRI Cost: Average Prices & Factors Influencing Expense

An MRI is an important medical procedure that allows physicians to get a deeper look at what is going on inside your body. This procedure can be a key element in finding the source of pain or illness and in helping doctors to determine an effective plan for treatment.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging

• The term MRI stands for magnetic resonance imaging. MRI technology allows your doctor to see a digital image of body tissues such as muscles, nerves, ligaments and bones.

Cost

• The cost of an MRI procedure varies and primarily depends on the type of procedure you are having done. An MRI on the brain will have a different price than an MRI done on another body part. The price range for an MRI runs from $400 to the way up to $3,500, as of 2010.

Payment

• For individuals who are covered by a health insurance plan, the cost of an MRI procedure is usually reimbursed. Check with your insurance provider to make sure your plan covers the procedure before scheduling your MRI. Those without insurance may qualify for a discount off the full price of the MRI.