How much does a CT scan of the head cost in California?
CT scan of the head/brain · CPT 70450 · State: California
In California, the typical insurer-negotiated price for a CT scan of the head/brain is about $648, with most between $251 and $1,143 ($2,288 cash/self-pay). Based on 249 California hospitals — 16% higher than the national typical of $558. Hospital list charges run about $4,229 (6.5× higher).
Source: medians across 249 California hospitals' published price files (≥5 reporting). See the national CT scan of the head/brain cost for the full picture. Estimates vary by hospital, insurer, and plan.
CT scan of the head/brain cost in California — FAQs
How much does a CT scan of the head/brain cost in California?
In California, the typical insurer-negotiated price for a CT scan of the head/brain is about $648, with most between $251 and $1,143, based on 249 California hospitals. That's 16% higher than the national typical of $558.
How much does a CT scan of the head/brain cost without insurance in California?
Cash or self-pay prices for a CT scan of the head/brain in California run around $2,288. Hospitals often bill the higher "list" charge first (about $4,229), so ask for the cash or self-pay rate.
Why is my California hospital bill for a CT scan of the head/brain so high?
California hospital "list" charges for a CT scan of the head/brain run about $4,229 — roughly 6.5× the $648 insurers actually pay there. The list price is rarely what anyone pays; the negotiated and cash rates are the realistic benchmark.
Can I negotiate the cost of a CT scan of the head/brain in California?
Yes. If a California hospital charged you well above the typical negotiated rate (about $648), that gap is negotiable. Upfronte audits your bill against real California hospital pricing data and negotiates it down on your behalf — no savings, no fee.
Charged more than $648 in California?
Upload your bill and Upfronte will check it against real California hospital prices and negotiate overcharges. No savings, no fee.
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