Brain MRI??

Question

what is the average cost of an MRI of the human brain????

Answer 1

While I have not had one in this calendar year, I had one in 2007, one in 2006, and one in 2005. (I have had a total of about 7, averaging about one every one-and-a-half to two years.)

I mention the last three I have had because each one has been different. The regular, standard MRI, with no contrast, was approximately $1800. The one with contrast was approximately $2500. I also had one on a special MRI machine which is not widely used (there are only about 45 machines in the country), and that one was very expensive: $3500. That last one was not only done on an expensive and unusual machine, but it also involved two separate scans--a plain one and then one with contrast. Had I just had one or the other, and not both on the same day, it would have been around $3200.

A CT scan of the brain ranges from $800 to $1200, depending on what they are looking for, and whether or not they use contrast.

MRIs are better scans, and the price will vary depending on whether or not they use a contrast medium. It also varies depending on what exactly they are looking for. If they are simply doing a baseline scan to look for major defects or problem areas in the brain, it will be on the lower end, and could be as inexpensive as $1500. If they are looking very closely at the vessels, as well as the other structures of the brain, or if they need to use a contrast medium (that's generally for when they are looking at the vessel sturctures), then it will be more expensive.

Also, please be aware that the silly little Valium pill they give to some people when they have MRIs can end up costing as much as $50-$75. It's really silly, as that little 5-10 mg pill retails for less than $1.00. For some reason, when they need to give you one before a test, they magically become extremely expensive. I don't have a problem having an MRI, so I never need a Valium.

Also, I know several people who have had more expensive MRIs, and they were just basic ones. The reason for the extra cost is that they were unable to keep their heads still during the testing, and the imaging center charged them for having to do two sets of films. If you have to have one, be sure to stay as still as possible. If you think it will be a problem, or if you think you might become claustrophobic in the machine, then opt for the Valium so that they don't have to run a second series. Some imaging centers don't charge for a second series if the first one doesn't turn out clearly, but some do.

If you have insurance, and if you get a referral (if it's required by your insurance company), the MRI should cost you next to nothing. I think each of the ones I had from 2005-2007 cost me about $40-$50, which was my copay for the service and for having them read by the radiologist.

I hope that helps.

I wish you the best.

Answer 2

Unless of course if you live in the UK, which I doubt, but it would be free.

Answer 3

about 900+ depending on what they are looking at. your insurance can give you an estimate or the MRI comp can.