How Much Does CT Scan of the Chest without Contrast Cost?
Also known as: Ct thorax dx c- (CPT 71250)
A CT scan of your chest without contrast dye, providing detailed cross-sectional images of your lungs, heart, and chest structures.
CT Scan of the Chest without Contrast (CPT 71250) costs $133 at Medicare rates.
The rates shown below represent the complete Medicare reimbursement for this service. No separate facility fee applies for this type of procedure.
Patient Guide: CT Scan of the Chest without Contrast
What you need to know before your appointment
What to Expect
You will lie on a table that slides through the CT scanner. You will be asked to hold your breath for 10-20 seconds while images are captured.
How Long Does It Take?
15-20 minutes
Common Reasons Doctors Order This
Lung nodule evaluation, chest injury, rib fractures, lung cancer screening, pulmonary embolism evaluation
How to Prepare
Remove metal from your chest area. No fasting needed. Inform staff if you are pregnant.
Procedures Commonly Done Together
These procedures are frequently performed alongside Ct thorax dx c-
What Insurance Companies Actually Pay
Real negotiated rates from 15 hospitals across 6 states (from hospital price transparency filings)
| Insurance Company | Avg Rate | Range | Hospitals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aetna | $1,361 | $95 - $5,434 | 10 |
| United | $800 | $78 - $4,258 | 10 |
| Cigna | $1,936 | $100 - $5,594 | 8 |
| Humana | $1,115 | $100 - $5,194 | 8 |
| BCBS | $464 | $107 - $3,312 | 5 |
| KAISER FOUNDATION HEALTH PLAN, INC. | $312 | $180 - $565 | 5 |
| Community Health Choice MCD | $107 | $107 | 3 |
| Molina Healthcare | $115 | $115 | 3 |
| Multiplan | $2,523 | $176 - $8,515 | 6 |
| BCBS-TX | $332 | $164 - $488 | 2 |
| Wellpoint | $359 | $105 - $1,340 | 2 |
| Anthem | $760 | $122 - $3,919 | 2 |
How to Reduce Your Cost for Ct thorax dx c-
Practical tips that can save you hundreds or thousands of dollars
- 1 Ask about cash-pay discounts
Many hospitals and clinics offer 20-40% discounts for self-pay patients. Always ask before scheduling.
- 2 Compare facility vs. office setting costs
Some procedures cost significantly less in an office setting than a hospital. Ask your provider about options.
- 3 Shop around — costs vary significantly
Costs can vary 2-3x between providers in the same city. Get quotes from multiple facilities.
How is the Price Calculated?
Medicare calculates procedure payments using Relative Value Units (RVUs). Each procedure has three components multiplied by a conversion factor ($33.40 in 2026) and adjusted by geographic cost indices.
Payment = Total RVU (3.97) x CF ($33.40) = $133
Related Procedures
Similar procedures in the same category or body system
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Ct thorax dx c- cost?
The Medicare facility rate for Ct thorax dx c- is $133. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).
How much does Ct thorax dx c- cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the cost of Ct thorax dx c- can range from 150% of Medicare to 500% of Medicare depending on the facility. Many hospitals and clinics offer self-pay discounts of 20-40% off their chargemaster price. Always ask about cash pricing before your visit.
Does insurance cover Ct thorax dx c-?
Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover Ct thorax dx c- when ordered by a physician for a medically necessary reason. Your out-of-pocket cost depends on your plan's deductible, copay/coinsurance structure, and whether you use an in-network provider. Check with your insurance company before scheduling to confirm coverage and get a cost estimate.
Why does the cost vary so much by location?
Medicare adjusts payments using Geographic Practice Cost Indices (GPCIs) that reflect local differences in physician work costs, practice expenses, and malpractice insurance. Manhattan, San Francisco, and other high-cost areas pay significantly more than rural regions. Commercial insurers follow similar geographic patterns.