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In short Get the order first Ask for the all-in price Compare more than one place Use your rights Common questions SourcesBefore paying cash for a scan or lab test, ask for the all-in price in writing and ask what is billed separately.
Prices for the same test can differ a great deal between a hospital and a standalone lab or imaging center. A few questions protect you from surprise bills.
Get the order first
Most scans and many lab tests need an order from a clinician. Ask your clinician for the order and for the exact test name, since the price depends on it. A different version of the same scan, for example with or without contrast, can cost more.
Ask for the all-in price
Ask: what is the self-pay price, does it include the facility fee and the radiologist or lab reading fee, and is there a discount for paying the same day? Reading and facility fees are often billed separately. Ask for the answer in writing.
Compare more than one place
Call at least two providers, including a standalone imaging center or lab, not only the hospital that ordered it. Pymander's catalog lists cash prices from outside sources for lab tests and imaging so you can see a baseline.
Use your rights
If you do not use insurance, providers usually must give you a good faith estimate when you schedule at least 3 business days ahead, or when you ask. If the bill is at least $400 more than the estimate, you may be able to dispute it, per CMS.
Common questions
Is it cheaper to pay cash for an MRI?
Sometimes. Standalone imaging centers often charge less than hospitals, and many have a self-pay price. Ask for the all-in price including the reading fee, and compare at least two places.
What is usually billed separately from a scan?
The facility fee and the radiologist's reading fee are often separate. Ask whether the quote includes both.
Do I need an order to get a lab test?
Usually yes, from a licensed clinician, though rules vary by state and test. Ask the lab or your clinician.
What if the bill is higher than the quote?
Compare it with your written estimate. If it is at least $400 more than a good faith estimate, you may be able to dispute it through the federal process described by CMS.
Where can I see cash prices?
Ask providers directly. Pymander's catalog also lists cash prices from outside sources for lab tests and imaging.