Each year in the US, millions of CT scans are performed to help diagnose and treat a wide range of medical conditions. However, the cost of these exams can be significant, particularly for those without insurance coverage. On average, a CT scan without insurance in the US can cost hundreds of dollars, depending on several factors. This article will provide an overview of what you can expect to pay for a CT scan without insurance and offer some tips for managing the cost.
What Is a CT Scan?
First things first, what is a CT scan? Well, a CT scan, also known as a computed tomography scan, is a medical imaging test that uses X-rays and computer technology to produce detailed pictures of the inside of the body. This test is commonly used to diagnose and monitor medical conditions and can help guide medical treatments such as surgery or radiation therapy. CT scans are generally considered safe and non-invasive, and can provide valuable information to help doctors make accurate diagnoses and treatment plans.
What Is the Difference Between a CT Scan With Contrast and Without It?
In some cases, medical experts use a special liquid called contrast material to help certain parts of the body show up better in the pictures. They usually give the contrast material through an IV in the arm. This helps to get a better look at your blood vessels, organs, or other body tissues that might be hard to see when they don’t use the contrast. If the professional healthcare provider don’t expect something is going on in these certain parts of the body, they won’t give the contrast.
Types of CT Scans
The type of CT scan that is recommended will depend on the medical condition being evaluated and the area of the body that needs to be examined. There are several types of CT scans, including:
- Head CT scan: This type of CT scan is used to examine the brain and skull, and is often used to diagnose, for example, head injuries, tumors, or other conditions affecting the brain.
- Chest CT scan: A chest CT scan is used to examine the lungs and surrounding structures, such as the heart and blood vessels. This type of CT scan can help diagnose lung cancer, heart disease, and other conditions, for example.
- Abdominal CT scan: An abdominal CT scan is used to examine the abdominal organs, such as the liver, pancreas, and kidneys. This type of CT scan can, for example, help diagnose conditions as liver disease, pancreatic cancer, and kidney stones.
- Pelvic CT scan: A pelvic CT scan is used to examine the pelvic area and reproductive organs, and can help diagnose conditions such as ovarian cancer, uterine fibroids, and prostate cancer.
- Virtual colonoscopy: This is a type of CT scan that is used to examine the colon for polyps and other abnormalities. This type of CT scan is often used as an alternative to a traditional colonoscopy.
When Do I Need a CT Scan?
The decision to have a CT scan is based on a person’s medical history, symptoms, and other factors. A CT scan may be suggested by a doctor or other healthcare provider to:
- Find out what is causing a medical problem or monitor a medical condition.
- Determine how severe a medical condition is.
- Help guide medical treatments, such as surgery or radiation therapy.
- Check if a medical treatment is working.
- Detect or evaluate the progression of a medical condition.
- Screen for a medical condition in individuals who are at higher risk.
What are the Costs of a CT Scan?
The cost of a CT scan in the United States can vary depending on several factors, including the type of scan, the location where it is performed, and insurance coverage. The overall cost may also be influenced by additional tests or procedures that are necessary. Understanding these factors can help you better manage the cost of a CT scan and make informed decisions about their healthcare.
With Insurance
In general, health insurance plans will cover some or all of the cost of a CT scan that is deemed medically necessary, but the amount of coverage and any out-of-pocket costs will depend on the following factors:
- The specific benefits covered under your health insurance plan.
- The amount of your deductible and co-pay requirements
- The type of CT scan that you need and whether it is considered medically necessary.
- The network of healthcare providers that your insurance plan covers.
- The location where the CT scan is performed.
- Whether prior authorization is required by your insurance plan.
Without Insurance
When you don’t have health insurance, the cost of a CT scan can vary significantly depending on a number of factors, such as the type of CT scan, the location, and the provider. However, the cost of a CT scan without insurance in the US can range from $500 to $3,000 or more. The cost of a CT scan can vary by state and by provider. Overall, hospital-based imaging centers tend to be more expensive than independent imaging centers. Additionally, larger cities or metropolitan areas may have higher costs than more rural areas.
The Average, Lowest, and Highest Costs of a CT Scan per State in the United States
To make the abovementioned information easier to understand, we have listed what the average, lowest & highest costs of CT scan per state is. Note the below-mentioned table is an example, prices can differ in real life!
| State | Average Cost without Insurance | Lowest Cost without Insurance | Highest Cost without Insurance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $1,121 | $500 | $2,200 |
| Alaska | $1,237 | $600 | $2,500 |
| Arizona | $1,259 | $600 | $2,500 |
| Arkansas | $1,098 | $500 | $2,200 |
| California | $1,483 | $750 | $3,500 |
| Colorado | $1,238 | $600 | $2,500 |
| Connecticut | $1,357 | $650 | $2,800 |
| Delaware | $1,215 | $600 | $2,500 |
| Florida | $1,249 | $600 | $2,500 |
| Georgia | $1,209 | $600 | $2,500 |
| Hawaii | $1,406 | $700 | $3,000 |
| Idaho | $1,064 | $500 | $2,200 |
| Illinois | $1,196 | $600 | $2,500 |
| Indiana | $1,177 | $600 | $2,500 |
| Iowa | $1,034 | $500 | $2,200 |
| Kansas | $1,129 | $500 | $2,200 |
| Kentucky | $1,146 | $500 | $2,200 |
| Louisiana | $1,154 | $500 | $2,200 |
| Maine | $1,122 | $550 | $2,400 |
| Maryland | $1,269 | $600 | $2,500 |
| Massachusetts | $1,354 | $650 | $2,800 |
| Michigan | $1,199 | $600 | $2,500 |
| Minnesota | $1,226 | $600 | $2,500 |
| Mississippi | $1,088 | $500 | $2,200 |
| Missouri | $1,123 | $500 | $2,200 |
| Montana | $1,142 | $550 | $2,400 |
| Nebraska | $1,065 | $500 | $2,200 |
| Nevada | $1,261 | $600 | $2,500 |
| New Hampshire | $1,192 | $600 | $2,500 |
| New Jersey | $1,329 | $650 | $2,800 |
| New Mexico | $1,162 | $550 | $2,400 |
| New York | $1,379 | $700 | $3,000 |
| North Carolina | $1,157 | $600 | $2,500 |
| North Dakota | $1,027 | $500 | $2,200 |
| Ohio | $1,173 | $600 | $2,500 |
| Oklahoma | $1,110 | $500 | $2,200 |
| Oregon | $1,217 | $600 | $2,500 |
| Pennsylvania | $1,238 | $600 | $2,500 |
| Rhode Island | $1,357 | $650 | $2,800 |
| South Carolina | $1,149 | $550 | $2,400 |
| South Dakota | $1,081 | $500 | $2,200 |
| Tennessee | $1,128 | $550 | $2,400 |
| Texas | $1,233 | $600 | $2,500 |
| Utah | $1,157 | $550 | $2,400 |
| Vermont | $1,237 | $600 | $2,500 |
| Virginia | $1,227 | $600 | $2,500 |
| Washington | $1,356 | $650 | $2,800 |
| West Virginia | $1,158 | $550 | $2,400 |
| Wisconsin | $1,193 | $600 | $2,500 |
| Wyoming | $1,105 | $500 | $2,200 |
Are There Any Affordable Options to Get a CT Scan?
Fortunately, here are 4 affordable options to get a CT scan when you don’t have insurance. Including:
- Independent imaging centers: Some independent imaging centers may offer lower rates than hospital-based centers.
- Community health clinics: Some community health clinics may provide discounted or free CT scans for those who meet certain eligibility requirements.
- Government-funded programs: In some cases, government-funded programs may offer discounted or free CT scans for those who meet certain eligibility requirements.
- Negotiate with providers: In some cases, it may be possible to negotiate with imaging centers or other providers to get a lower rate for a CT scan, even if you don’t have insurance
Overall, it is important to talk to your doctor or healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about the type of CT scan that you need. Also, do your own extensive (online) research and shop around to find the best price for a CT scan in your area. To help you on your way, start your search here:
