How Much Does CT Scan of the Chest with Contrast Cost?
Also known as: Ct thorax dx c+ (CPT 71260)
A CT scan of your chest with contrast dye to enhance visibility of blood vessels and soft tissues.
CT Scan of the Chest with Contrast (CPT 71260) costs $167 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 with Contrast
What you need to know before your appointment
What to Expect
An IV line is placed for contrast injection. You lie on the CT table and hold your breath briefly while detailed chest images are captured. You may feel warm during contrast injection.
How Long Does It Take?
20-30 minutes
Common Reasons Doctors Order This
Pulmonary embolism (blood clot in lungs), aortic evaluation, chest mass, lymph node assessment, infection
How to Prepare
Fast for 4 hours before. Report allergies to contrast dye. Tell staff about kidney problems or asthma.
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 | $1,469 | $159 - $6,878 | 10 |
| United | $1,140 | $157 - $6,647 | 10 |
| Cigna | $3,064 | $167 - $9,454 | 8 |
| Humana | $1,466 | $167 - $6,575 | 8 |
| BCBS | $715 | $178 - $4,574 | 5 |
| KAISER FOUNDATION HEALTH PLAN, INC. | $422 | $244 - $765 | 5 |
| Community Health Choice MCD | $173 | $173 | 3 |
| Molina Healthcare | $189 | $189 | 3 |
| Multiplan | $4,894 | $295 - $13,295 | 6 |
| BCBS-TX | $577 | $266 - $819 | 2 |
| Wellpoint | $423 | $172 - $1,340 | 2 |
| Anthem | $1,720 | $291 - $10,931 | 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 (4.99) x CF ($33.40) = $167
Related Procedures
Similar procedures in the same category or body system
People Also Ask
Common questions people search for about this procedure
How much does a chest CT scan cost out of pocket?
Why are CT scans not covered by insurance?
Since CT scans have been around for a considerable amount of time, an insurer would not likely deem them “experimental” or “investigational.” If your insurer is saying the CT scan is not medically necessary, you may need a letter from your doctor that details why it is necessary.
Can a CT scan detect chest problems?
A CT scan is a type of x-ray and is regularly used to detect many illnesses, including those in the chest. A chest CT scan shows more detailed pictures of the lungs than a standard chest x-ray and involves more radiation.
How long will a chest CT scan take?
How long does the test take? The test will take about 30 to 60 minutes. Most of this time is spent getting ready for the scan. The actual test only takes a few minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Ct thorax dx c+ cost?
The Medicare facility rate for Ct thorax dx c+ is $167. 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.