How Much Does MRI of the Mid-Back (Thoracic Spine) without Contrast Cost?
Also known as: Mri chest spine without contrast (CPT 72146)
MRI of the thoracic spine (mid-back) without contrast.
MRI of the Mid-Back (Thoracic Spine) without Contrast (CPT 72146) costs $190 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: MRI of the Mid-Back (Thoracic Spine) without Contrast
What you need to know before your appointment
What to Expect
You lie in the MRI tube while detailed images of your mid-back are captured. The machine is loud; earplugs provided.
How Long Does It Take?
30-45 minutes
Common Reasons Doctors Order This
Mid-back pain, thoracic disc herniation, spinal cord evaluation, numbness or weakness in the legs
How to Prepare
Remove all metal. Tell staff about implants. Request sedation if claustrophobic.
Procedures Commonly Done Together
These procedures are frequently performed alongside Mri chest spine without contrast
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| United | $1,156 | $187 - $6,072 | 10 |
| Cigna | $3,463 | $227 - $8,636 | 9 |
| Aetna | $2,131 | $216 - $4,048 | 7 |
| Humana | $1,565 | $227 - $3,270 | 8 |
| KAISER FOUNDATION HEALTH PLAN, INC. | $557 | $323 - $1,010 | 5 |
| Multiplan | $4,951 | $393 - $12,145 | 5 |
| BCBS-TX | $687 | $340 - $1,014 | 2 |
| Anthem | $2,362 | $484 - $9,986 | 2 |
| Wellpoint | $464 | $196 - $1,340 | 2 |
| CHC | $1,368 | $206 - $2,767 | 2 |
| UNITED | $344 | $198 - $619 | 2 |
| BCBS - TN | $399 | $325 - $524 | 2 |
How to Reduce Your Cost for Mri chest spine without contrast
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 (5.70) x CF ($33.40) = $190
Related Procedures
Similar procedures in the same category or body system
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Mri chest spine without contrast cost?
The Medicare facility rate for Mri chest spine without contrast is $190. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).
How much does Mri chest spine without contrast cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the cost of Mri chest spine without contrast 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 Mri chest spine without contrast?
Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover Mri chest spine without contrast 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.