How much does an X-ray of the lower back cost in California?
X-ray of the lower back (lumbar spine) · CPT 72100 · State: California
In California, the typical insurer-negotiated price for an X-ray of the lower back (lumbar spine) is about $236, with most between $149 and $329 ($467 cash/self-pay). Based on 244 California hospitals — 30% higher than the national typical of $181. Hospital list charges run about $880 (3.7× higher).
Source: medians across 244 California hospitals' published price files (≥5 reporting). See the national X-ray of the lower back (lumbar spine) cost for the full picture. Estimates vary by hospital, insurer, and plan.
X-ray of the lower back (lumbar spine) cost in California — FAQs
How much does an X-ray of the lower back (lumbar spine) cost in California?
In California, the typical insurer-negotiated price for an X-ray of the lower back (lumbar spine) is about $236, with most between $149 and $329, based on 244 California hospitals. That's 30% higher than the national typical of $181.
How much does an X-ray of the lower back (lumbar spine) cost without insurance in California?
Cash or self-pay prices for an X-ray of the lower back (lumbar spine) in California run around $467. Hospitals often bill the higher "list" charge first (about $880), so ask for the cash or self-pay rate.
Why is my California hospital bill for an X-ray of the lower back (lumbar spine) so high?
California hospital "list" charges for an X-ray of the lower back (lumbar spine) run about $880 — roughly 3.7× the $236 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 X-ray of the lower back (lumbar spine) in California?
Yes. If a California hospital charged you well above the typical negotiated rate (about $236), 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 $236 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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