How Much Does Chest X-ray (2 Views) Cost?
Also known as: X-ray exam chest 2 views (CPT 71046)
A chest X-ray taken from both the front and the side (two views) for more complete evaluation.
Chest X-ray (2 Views) (CPT 71046) costs $33 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: Chest X-ray (2 Views)
What you need to know before your appointment
What to Expect
You will stand for two X-ray images: one from the front and one from the side. You take a deep breath and hold it for each image.
How Long Does It Take?
10-15 minutes
Common Reasons Doctors Order This
Pneumonia, lung disease, heart enlargement, rib fractures, pre-operative screening, shortness of breath evaluation
How to Prepare
Remove jewelry, bra with underwire, and metal from the chest area. You may change into a gown. Inform staff of pregnancy.
Procedures Commonly Done Together
These procedures are frequently performed alongside X-ray exam chest 2 views
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 | $314 | $79 - $1,166 | 8 |
| United | $251 | $34 - $994 | 10 |
| Cigna | $359 | $43 - $1,413 | 9 |
| BCBS | $225 | $35 - $708 | 5 |
| Humana | $270 | $42 - $1,063 | 8 |
| KAISER FOUNDATION HEALTH PLAN, INC. | $204 | $118 - $370 | 5 |
| Community Health Choice MCD | $34 | $34 | 3 |
| Molina Healthcare | $37 | $37 | 3 |
| BCBS-TX | $189 | $113 - $269 | 2 |
| Multiplan | $898 | $146 - $1,988 | 4 |
| Anthem | $259 | $25 - $1,634 | 2 |
| Wellpoint | $294 | $34 - $1,229 | 2 |
How to Reduce Your Cost for X-ray exam chest 2 views
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 (0.99) x CF ($33.40) = $33
Related Procedures
Similar procedures in the same category or body system
People Also Ask
Common questions people search for about this procedure
What is the 000 fee for immigration?
Aliens who are apprehended between ports of entry and determined to be inadmissible are subject to the HR-1 fee, which is ,000 for FY 2025. See Public Law 119-21 sec.
Why do you need a chest X-ray for immigration?
If the initial screening test is positive, or if the applicant has signs or symptoms of TB or has known HIV infection, a chest X-ray must be performed.
How much is the medical fee for an immigrant visa?
The cost of the basic immigration medical exam is 35.00. This includes blood work (test for syphilis, chlamydia, gonorrhea), physical exam, and follow up consultation to pick up results and certified forms.
How to get a chest X-ray for a visa?
It is as simple as visiting your healthcare professional (such as your GP) to write you a letter of referral for a visa chest X-ray to rule out tuberculosis. You can ask them to fill out our referral form or they can use their own; as long as it's signed by a registered healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does X-ray exam chest 2 views cost?
The Medicare facility rate for X-ray exam chest 2 views is $33. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).
How much does X-ray exam chest 2 views cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the cost of X-ray exam chest 2 views 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 X-ray exam chest 2 views?
Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover X-ray exam chest 2 views 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.