How much does an MRI of the lumbar spine cost in California?
MRI of the lumbar spine · CPT 72148 · State: California
In California, the typical insurer-negotiated price for an MRI of the lumbar spine is about $1,090, with most between $491 and $2,255 ($2,848 cash/self-pay). Based on 246 California hospitals — 25% higher than the national typical of $870. Hospital list charges run about $5,009 (4.6× higher).
Source: medians across 246 California hospitals' published price files (≥5 reporting). See the national MRI of the lumbar spine cost for the full picture. Estimates vary by hospital, insurer, and plan.
MRI of the lumbar spine cost in California — FAQs
How much does an MRI of the lumbar spine cost in California?
In California, the typical insurer-negotiated price for an MRI of the lumbar spine is about $1,090, with most between $491 and $2,255, based on 246 California hospitals. That's 25% higher than the national typical of $870.
How much does an MRI of the lumbar spine cost without insurance in California?
Cash or self-pay prices for an MRI of the lumbar spine in California run around $2,848. Hospitals often bill the higher "list" charge first (about $5,009), so ask for the cash or self-pay rate.
Why is my California hospital bill for an MRI of the lumbar spine so high?
California hospital "list" charges for an MRI of the lumbar spine run about $5,009 — roughly 4.6× the $1,090 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 an MRI of the lumbar spine in California?
Yes. If a California hospital charged you well above the typical negotiated rate (about $1,090), 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 $1,090 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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