How much does a CT scan of the lumbar spine cost in California?

CT scan of the lumbar spine · CPT 72131 · State: California

In California, the typical insurer-negotiated price for a CT scan of the lumbar spine is about $739, with most between $281 and $1,405 ($2,412 cash/self-pay). Based on 247 California hospitals — 25% higher than the national typical of $590. Hospital list charges run about $4,736 (6.4× higher).

Insurer-negotiated
$739
California · $281–$1,405
Cash / self-pay
$2,412
typical cash price
Hospital list charge
$4,736
6.4× the negotiated rate

Source: medians across 247 California hospitals' published price files (≥5 reporting). See the national CT scan of the lumbar spine cost for the full picture. Estimates vary by hospital, insurer, and plan.

CT scan of the lumbar spine cost in California — FAQs

How much does a CT scan of the lumbar spine cost in California?

In California, the typical insurer-negotiated price for a CT scan of the lumbar spine is about $739, with most between $281 and $1,405, based on 247 California hospitals. That's 25% higher than the national typical of $590.

How much does a CT scan of the lumbar spine cost without insurance in California?

Cash or self-pay prices for a CT scan of the lumbar spine in California run around $2,412. Hospitals often bill the higher "list" charge first (about $4,736), so ask for the cash or self-pay rate.

Why is my California hospital bill for a CT scan of the lumbar spine so high?

California hospital "list" charges for a CT scan of the lumbar spine run about $4,736 — roughly 6.4× the $739 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 lumbar spine in California?

Yes. If a California hospital charged you well above the typical negotiated rate (about $739), 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 $739 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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