CT Scan Prices: How much does a CAT scan cost?

What is a CT scan?

A computed tomography (CT) scan, also sometimes called a CAT scan, is a medical imaging procedure that uses rotating x-ray machines to provide a detailed cross-sectional view of what's inside the body. It's a noninvasive way to detect internal abnormalities, or monitor how well they are healing. CT scans show soft tissue, blood vessels, and bones.

How can I find a CT scan?

CT scanning machines can be found at most hospitals and other inpatient facilities. However, they are also used in outpatient surgery centers and other facilities specializing in diagnostic imaging. Tripment.com can help you find the most affordable imaging center near you for your next CT scan.

How much does a CT scan cost without insurance?

CT/CAT scans without insurance can vary considerably in price.  One factor is whether your scan takes place in an inpatient or outpatient facility. Inpatient facilities, like hospitals, tend to be more expensive than outpatient facilities, like centers that specialize in diagnostic imaging. A CT scan in a hospital costs an average of $4,750, whereas outpatient facilities are more likely to charge around $525. The part of the body being scanned can also influence cost. Bone density scans tend to be the least expensive, while head, neck, and abdominal scans can easily cost over $10,000 for the uninsured.

Tripment Health has negotiated prices with diagnostic imaging facilities across the country so patients can receive affordable CT scans without going through insurance. CT scans through Tripment Health start as low as $88, and can even be financed through several low interest-free payments.

How much does a CT scan cost with insurance?

If you have health insurance, your insurance provider will usually cover a portion of the cost. However, if you have a high deductible you may still end up with a very large bill. You may find that getting a CT scan through Tripment Health is considerably less expensive than using your existing insurance. With Tripment Health, all services are paid for when the appointment is scheduled, and you will never receive a surprise bill after services have been rendered. 

How is a CT scan done?

1. The procedure begins with a CT angiogram. Your doctor gives you a special dye, either in the form of an injection, an enema, or a drink. This allows for a clearer projection of vessels and tissues under the X-rays
2. Next, the patient removes the clothes he/she wore to the office and changes into a hospital gown 
3. The patient then lies down on a table that is slid into the scanner. 
4. A doctor monitors the patient, who will be asked to lie still as the machine rotates around him/her
5. Scans may take up to an hour, and results are typically sent to your provider within 24 hours.

What is a CT scan for?

Doctors order CT scans for diagnostic purposes, so they can find abnormalities in the body that are invisible from the outside. Once a diagnosis is reached, providers and patients can develop a treatment plan relevant to the diagnosis. Often, more scans will be ordered in the future to track treatment progress or monitor changes.

When will I get my results? 

The scan itself generally only takes 30-60 minutes. From there, results are analyzed by a radiologist, who will then forward the results to your primary care provider. This typically takes 24-48 hours, but the process can be delayed due to weekends, holidays, or an unusually high volume of patients. 

Do I need a doctor’s referral to get a CT scan?

Like most diagnostic imaging procedures, you will need a referral for a CT scan. Your primary care provider can write you a referral that specifies the type of CT you need (for example, with or without contrast, and what part of the body requires scanning). If you don't already have a provider, you can find one on Tripment Health who can write you a referral after a telehealth appointment. 

Types of CT/CAT scan available on Tripment:

• CT Scan Abdomen
• CT Angiography
• CT Scan Arthrography
• CT Scan Bones
• CT Scan Brain/ CT Scan Head
• CT Scan Chest (CT Scan Lung)
• CT Scan Neck
• CT Scan Pelvis
• CT Scan Sinus

How can you save money on CT scan costs?

The best way to save money on CT scans is to go to an outpatient clinic and pay out-of-pocket. For the most affordable CT scan, you can visit Tripment.com and compare prices and reviews of diagnostic imaging facilities near you. 

Don’t let the cost of a CT scan prevent you from getting the quality care you need! Our team is here to help you find the best location, most affordable price, and highest quality of care near you.