CPT 71552 Radiology

How Much Does MRI Chest without & with Contrast Cost?

Also known as: Mri chest w/o & w/dye (CPT 71552)

MRI Chest without & with Contrast (CPT 71552) costs $466 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.

Medicare (Facility)
$466
CMS PFS 2026 national rate

Procedures Commonly Done Together

These procedures are frequently performed alongside Mri chest w/o & w/dye

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How to Reduce Your Cost for Mri chest w/o & w/dye

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.

2.20
Work RVU
11.58
Practice Expense RVU
0.17
Malpractice RVU
13.95
Total RVU

Payment = Total RVU (13.95) x CF ($33.40) = $466

People Also Ask

Common questions people search for about this procedure

What is the cost of a chest MRI?

The average cash price for chest mri in California is 55.

Source: cost.sidecarhealth.com See our data-backed answer →
Can an MRI detect multiple sclerosis?
Which is better for chest CT scan or MRI?
Are MRIs covered by insurance?

Generally, health insurance plans may cover MRI scans if a healthcare provider deems them medically necessary. This necessity is often determined based on symptoms, previous diagnostic tests, or specific medical conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Mri chest w/o & w/dye cost?

The Medicare facility rate for Mri chest w/o & w/dye is $466. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).

How much does Mri chest w/o & w/dye cost without insurance?

Without insurance, the cost of Mri chest w/o & w/dye 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 w/o & w/dye?

Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover Mri chest w/o & w/dye 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.

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