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How much does an x-ray cost?
Compare payment options and costs for an x-ray
If you're a candidate for an x-ray, costs vary significantly based on your insurance, where you live and the hospital or doctor you choose. Each procedure is assigned standardized, 5-digit CPT codes that hospitals and insurance companies use for billing purposes. Use the CPT code to compare prices for an x-ray before scheduling your appointment.
Average cost for an x-ray
If you have health insurance and use an in-network doctor, you can expect to pay $383 for an x-ray on average. If you don't have insurance or you choose an out-of-network doctor, the cost increases to $1,027.
Average costs are based on the primary cost of an x-ray in the 90201 ZIP code and don't factor in insurance costs like copays or deductibles, or additional fees often charged by doctors or hospitals — like medical supplies, facility fees and support services.
| CPT code | Procedure | ZIP used | Description | In network total costs | Out of network total costs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 72110 | X-ray | 90201 | X-Ray, lower back, minimum four views | $383 | $1,027 |
Related costs for an x-ray
| CPT code | Primary procedure | Description | In network cost | Out of network cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 72110 | Hospital (outpatient) | Hospital outpatient facility (HOSPF) estimate for procedure code 72110 (in addition to your doctor's fee) | $349 | $942 |
| Total primary & related costs | $349 | $942 |
Does health insurance cover an x-ray?
Most health insurance policies cover an x-ray if it's medically necessary and you've met your deductible and any coinsurance or copays specified in your policy. If you don't have health insurance, you may need to pay the full cost of an x-ray out of pocket. The exact amount your insurance pays for an x-ray comes down to your plan and the doctor or healthcare facility you're going to. For the most accurate idea of how much you'll pay out of pocket, contact your insurance company before booking an x-ray.
Does Medicare cover an x-ray?
It depends on your Medicare plan, but generally Medicare covers procedures like an x-ray that are considered medically necessary by your doctor.
- Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) covers inpatient care in a hospital or skilled nursing facility following a hospital stay, so it typically won't cover an x-ray.
- Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) pays for emergency, urgent and outpatient care and some preventative services, which means Medicare likely covers an x-ray — but you'll be charged a 20% coinsurance.
- Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage) is a comprehensive plan that combines Part A, Part B and often Part D and should pay for a portion of an x-ray minus any deductible, copay or coinsurance.
- Medicare Part D (Prescription Drugs) won't cover an x-ray, but it may help to pay for any medication you need as part of your recovery.
What affects the cost of an x-ray?
The price you'll pay for an x-ray varies based on factors like:
- Your health insurance plan. Your coinsurance, copay and how much of your deductible you've met affects the amount you pay for an x-ray out of pocket, does as whether your doctor or anyone else involved is outside your network.
- Your location. Where you live dictates which doctors or healthcare facilities you have access to for an x-ray. Urban areas are more competitive, which can drive down costs for an x-ray compared to rural areas.
- Your doctor. Your doctor's experience and expertise affects how much they charge for an x-ray. And the cost may increase if complications arise during an x-ray and your doctor has to call in other medical professionals.
- Additional fees. Your healthcare provider may charge associated fees that increase the overall cost of an x-ray.
How to cut your costs for an x-ray
In the leadup to an x-ray, confirm your copay, coinsurance and deductible with your insurer so you know how much you'll pay out of pocket.
- Dip into your HSA, FSA or HRA. These tax-advantaged accounts can help you to cover out-of-pocket costs for an x-ray.
- Ask about financial aid. If you can't afford to pay the average cost of $383 with or without insurance, most hospitals and clinics offer financial aid programs that include discounts or interest-free payment plans.
- Explore outpatient centers. Outpatient facilities tend to charge less for medical procedures like an x-ray, though they're not an option for everyone.
- Consider medical loans. A medical loan could help pay for anything your health insurance doesn't cover for an x-ray, like copays or coinsurance.
- Compare doctors and hospitals. Lower the price of medical services by comparing in-network hospitals before you schedule an x-ray. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services require hospitals and clinics to publish online price lists for common procedures, which may include costs for an x-ray.
Bottom line
The price of an x-ray is a major consideration for treatment whether you have health insurance or not. The amount you'll pay for an x-ray can vary between doctors, hospitals, locations and insurance plans, which is why it's worth comparing hospital prices.
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