A PET scan is a type of medical imaging that uses radiation to create pictures of the body. It can be used to diagnose and treat illnesses such as cancer. A PET scan cost varies depending on where you live, but the price is typically between $1,000 and $9,000.
Several factors can influence the cost of a PET scan, including the type of insurance you have and the hospital or imaging center you go to. Read on for more details!
How Much Does a PET Scan Cost?
The cost of a PET scan can vary depending on where you live. The average price in the US is $5,750, though prices range from about $1,500 to $9,225, with an outpatient surgery center costing less than hospitals and having more convenience for patients.
PET Scan Cost Averages Around the Country
The following is a table of the cost of a PET scan around the United States.
Location |
Price |
Washington DC |
$1,550 – $4,000 |
Atlanta |
$1,650 – $4,300 |
Chicago |
$1,500 – $3,900 |
Dallas |
$1,350 – $3,500 |
Houston |
$1,500 – $3,900 |
Phoenix |
$1,500 – $3,900 |
Los Angeles |
$1,700 – $4,400 |
Miami |
$1,450 – $3,800 |
New York |
$1,550 – $3,900 |
Philadelphia |
$1,500 – $3,900 |
PET Scan Procedure National Cost Averages
Procedure |
National Price Range |
Whole Body |
$3,000 - $12,000 |
Heart |
$2,800 - $24,200 |
Brain |
$2,200 - $10,700 |
Skull to Mid-thigh |
$3,200 - $12,000 |
Chest to Neck |
$3,000 - $10,700 |
What Affects the Cost of a PET Scan?
Different factors can affect the cost of a PET scan, including the facility where the scan is performed, the geographic location, and the specific scan protocols used. Additionally, some insurance plans may cover PET scans while others do not.
Let’s take a closer look at the most significant factors.
- The type of PET scan can affect the cost. Some scans are more complex than others and require specialized equipment. There are different types of PET scans, and the cost can vary depending on the type of scan. For example, cancer patients may undergo whole-body PET scans to check for the spread of disease, while cardiac patients may have focused studies on looking at heart function.
- Insurance coverage can affect the cost of a PET scan. Some insurance plans cover the entire cost while others only cover a portion, and the PET scan cost without insurance is much higher.
- Regional prices for PET scans can vary depending on your area. Prices are often higher in big cities than in smaller towns. Above is the table with the regional price ranges of PET scans in the United States of America.
- The facility where your PET scan is done can also affect the cost. Some facilities are more expensive than others.
- Shopping around for a PET scan can help you save money. Compare prices at different facilities before making a decision.
- Cash-pay discounts may be available if you pay for your PET scan out-of-pocket. Be sure to ask about discounts when you call to inquire about pricing.
Bottom Line
To sum up, the cost of a PET scan in the US varies depending on your location but is typically quite expensive. If you are uninsured or underinsured, you may be able to get a discount through a healthcare facility or imaging center. There are also programs available that can help reduce the cost of a PET scan. Contact your insurance company or local hospital to learn more about these programs and how you can qualify for them.
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