How much does an MRI of the lumbar spine cost in New York City?

MRI of the lumbar spine · CPT 72148 · Metro area: New York City

In New York City, the typical insurer-negotiated price for an MRI of the lumbar spine is about $738, with most between $298 and $1,160 ($415 cash/self-pay). Based on 35 New York City hospitals — 15% lower than the national typical of $870. Hospital list charges run about $984 (1.3× higher).

Insurer-negotiated
$738
New York City · $298–$1,160
Cash / self-pay
$415
typical cash price
Hospital list charge
$984
1.3× the negotiated rate

Source: medians across 35 New York City 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 New York City — FAQs

How much does an MRI of the lumbar spine cost in New York City?

In New York City, the typical insurer-negotiated price for an MRI of the lumbar spine is about $738, with most between $298 and $1,160, based on 35 New York City hospitals. That's 15% lower than the national typical of $870.

How much does an MRI of the lumbar spine cost without insurance in New York City?

Cash or self-pay prices for an MRI of the lumbar spine in New York City run around $415. Hospitals often bill the higher "list" charge first (about $984), so ask for the cash or self-pay rate.

Why is my New York City hospital bill for an MRI of the lumbar spine so high?

New York City hospital "list" charges for an MRI of the lumbar spine run about $984 — roughly 1.3× the $738 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 New York City?

Yes. If a New York City hospital charged you well above the typical negotiated rate (about $738), that gap is negotiable. Upfronte audits your bill against real New York City hospital pricing data and negotiates it down on your behalf — no savings, no fee.

Charged more than $738 in New York City?

Upload your bill and Upfronte will check it against real New York City hospital prices and negotiate overcharges. No savings, no fee.

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