How much does an MRI of the thoracic spine cost in California?

MRI of the thoracic spine · CPT 72146 · State: California

In California, the typical insurer-negotiated price for an MRI of the thoracic spine is about $1,083, with most between $557 and $2,254 ($2,807 cash/self-pay). Based on 246 California hospitals — 25% higher than the national typical of $868. Hospital list charges run about $4,963 (4.6× higher).

Insurer-negotiated
$1,083
California · $557–$2,254
Cash / self-pay
$2,807
typical cash price
Hospital list charge
$4,963
4.6× the negotiated rate

Source: medians across 246 California hospitals' published price files (≥5 reporting). See the national MRI of the thoracic spine cost for the full picture. Estimates vary by hospital, insurer, and plan.

MRI of the thoracic spine cost in California — FAQs

How much does an MRI of the thoracic spine cost in California?

In California, the typical insurer-negotiated price for an MRI of the thoracic spine is about $1,083, with most between $557 and $2,254, based on 246 California hospitals. That's 25% higher than the national typical of $868.

How much does an MRI of the thoracic spine cost without insurance in California?

Cash or self-pay prices for an MRI of the thoracic spine in California run around $2,807. Hospitals often bill the higher "list" charge first (about $4,963), so ask for the cash or self-pay rate.

Why is my California hospital bill for an MRI of the thoracic spine so high?

California hospital "list" charges for an MRI of the thoracic spine run about $4,963 — roughly 4.6× the $1,083 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 thoracic spine in California?

Yes. If a California hospital charged you well above the typical negotiated rate (about $1,083), 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 $1,083 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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