How Much Does X-ray of the Shoulder (2 or More Views) Cost?
Also known as: X-ray exam of shoulder (CPT 73030)
An X-ray of your shoulder, taken from a minimum of 2 views.
X-ray of the Shoulder (2 or More Views) (CPT 73030) costs $36 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: X-ray of the Shoulder (2 or More Views)
What you need to know before your appointment
What to Expect
You will sit or stand while a technologist positions your arm and shoulder for X-ray images from at least two different angles.
How Long Does It Take?
10-15 minutes
Common Reasons Doctors Order This
Shoulder pain, injury from a fall, suspected fracture, dislocation evaluation, arthritis assessment
How to Prepare
Remove jewelry and clothing from the shoulder area. You may change into a gown. Inform staff if you are pregnant.
Procedures Commonly Done Together
These procedures are frequently performed alongside X-ray exam of shoulder
What Insurance Companies Actually Pay
Real negotiated rates from 16 hospitals across 6 states (from hospital price transparency filings)
| Insurance Company | Avg Rate | Range | Hospitals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aetna | $429 | $79 - $1,318 | 9 |
| Cigna | $405 | $47 - $1,598 | 10 |
| United | $321 | $35 - $1,232 | 10 |
| KAISER FOUNDATION HEALTH PLAN, INC. | $204 | $118 - $370 | 5 |
| Humana | $353 | $83 - $1,037 | 7 |
| BCBS-TX | $190 | $113 - $269 | 3 |
| Multiplan | $1,236 | $146 - $2,463 | 4 |
| Anthem | $270 | $22 - $1,848 | 2 |
| Wellpoint | $316 | $35 - $1,340 | 2 |
| CHC | $413 | $29 - $878 | 2 |
| UNITED | $67 | $35 - $108 | 2 |
| Superior Health Plan | $159 | $132 - $164 | 2 |
How to Reduce Your Cost for X-ray exam of shoulder
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 (1.07) x CF ($33.40) = $36
Related Procedures
Similar procedures in the same category or body system
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does X-ray exam of shoulder cost?
The Medicare facility rate for X-ray exam of shoulder is $36. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).
How much does X-ray exam of shoulder cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the cost of X-ray exam of shoulder 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 of shoulder?
Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover X-ray exam of shoulder 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.