How Much Does MRI of the Lower Back (Lumbar Spine) without Contrast Cost?
Also known as: MRI lumbar spine without contrast (CPT 72148)
A detailed scan of the lower back using magnetic imaging to see the spine, discs, and nerves.
MRI of the Lower Back (Lumbar Spine) without Contrast (CPT 72148) costs $85 at Medicare rates. Hospital outpatient rate: $244.
Cost Comparison by Payer
How much MRI lumbar spine without contrast costs across different settings and payers
Patient Guide: MRI of the Lower Back (Lumbar Spine) without Contrast
What you need to know before your appointment
What to Expect
You lie on your back on a table that slides into a tube-shaped machine. The scan takes about 30-45 minutes. You must stay very still.
How Long Does It Take?
30-45 minutes
Common Reasons Doctors Order This
Lower back pain, sciatica, herniated disc, spinal stenosis, leg numbness or weakness
How to Prepare
Remove all metal jewelry. Wear comfortable clothing without metal. Tell staff about implants or claustrophobia.
Procedures Commonly Done Together
These procedures are frequently performed alongside MRI lumbar spine without contrast
MRI lumbar spine without contrast Cost by Location
Medicare-adjusted rates across CMS localities
| Location | Medicare Rate | Est. Commercial |
|---|---|---|
| AK — ALASKA | $225 | $292 — $449 |
| AK — ALASKA* | $109 | $163 — $272 |
| AL — ALABAMA | $174 | $226 — $347 |
| AR — ARKANSAS | $171 | $223 — $342 |
| AZ — ARIZONA | $188 | $244 — $376 |
| AZ — Phoenix | $88 | $131 — $219 |
| CA — BAKERSFIELD | $206 | $268 — $412 |
| CA — CHICO | $205 | $267 — $411 |
| CA — EL CENTRO | $205 | $267 — $411 |
| CA — FRESNO | $205 | $267 — $411 |
| CA — HANFORD-CORCORAN | $205 | $267 — $411 |
| CA — LOS ANGELES-LONG BEACH-ANAHEIM (LOS ANGELES/ORANGE CNTY) | $219 | $285 — $439 |
| CA — Los Angeles | $98 | $148 — $246 |
| CA — MADERA | $205 | $267 — $411 |
| CA — MERCED | $205 | $267 — $411 |
| CA — MODESTO | $205 | $267 — $411 |
| CA — NAPA | $239 | $311 — $478 |
| CA — OXNARD-THOUSAND OAKS-VENTURA | $218 | $284 — $437 |
| CA — REDDING | $205 | $267 — $411 |
| CA — REST OF CALIFORNIA | $205 | $267 — $411 |
| CA — RIVERSIDE-SAN BERNARDINO-ONTARIO | $207 | $269 — $413 |
| CA — SACRAMENTO-ROSEVILLE-FOLSOM | $216 | $281 — $432 |
| CA — SALINAS | $215 | $280 — $430 |
| CA — SAN DIEGO-CHULA VISTA-CARLSBAD | $220 | $286 — $440 |
| CA — SAN FRANCISCO-OAKLAND-BERKELEY (MARIN CNTY) | $253 | $329 — $507 |
How to Reduce Your Cost for MRI lumbar spine without contrast
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
For this procedure, the office rate ($309) differs from the facility rate ($85). Ask if it can be done in an office setting.
- 3 Shop around — costs vary significantly
Medicare rates for this procedure range from $83 to $259 depending on location. Commercial rates vary even more.
- 4 Check ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs)
This procedure is available at ASCs for $123, compared to $244 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 () x CF ($33.40) = N/A
Related Procedures
Similar procedures in the same category or body system
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does MRI lumbar spine without contrast cost?
The Medicare facility rate for MRI lumbar spine without contrast is $85. In a hospital outpatient setting, the rate is $244. At an ambulatory surgery center, the rate is $123. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).
How much does MRI lumbar spine without contrast cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the cost of MRI lumbar spine without contrast 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 MRI lumbar spine without contrast?
Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover MRI lumbar spine without contrast 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.