How Much Does CT Scan of the Chest without Contrast Cost?
Also known as: Ct thorax dx c- (CPT 71250)
A detailed scan of the lungs and chest structures using X-ray technology.
CT Scan of the Chest without Contrast (CPT 71250) costs $133 at Medicare rates. Hospital outpatient rate: $107.
Cost Comparison by Payer
How much Ct thorax dx c- costs across different settings and payers
Patient Guide: CT Scan of the Chest without Contrast
What you need to know before your appointment
What to Expect
You lie on a table that slides through a ring-shaped scanner. You hold your breath briefly while images are taken.
How Long Does It Take?
5-15 minutes
Common Reasons Doctors Order This
Lung nodule evaluation, chest pain, shortness of breath, trauma, lung cancer screening
How to Prepare
Remove metal from the chest area. Hold your breath when instructed. Inform staff if pregnant.
Procedures Commonly Done Together
These procedures are frequently performed alongside Ct thorax dx c-
How to Reduce Your Cost for Ct thorax dx c-
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.
- 4 Check ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs)
This procedure is available at ASCs for $57, compared to $107 at hospital outpatient departments. ASCs often offer lower costs with comparable quality.
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 (3.97) x CF ($33.40) = $133
Related Procedures
Similar procedures in the same category or body system
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Ct thorax dx c- cost?
The Medicare facility rate for Ct thorax dx c- is $133. In a hospital outpatient setting, the rate is $107. At an ambulatory surgery center, the rate is $57. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).
How much does Ct thorax dx c- cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the cost of Ct thorax dx c- 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 Ct thorax dx c-?
Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover Ct thorax dx c- 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.