How Much Does X-ray of the Abdomen (1 View) Cost?
Also known as: Radex abdomen 1 view (CPT 74018)
A single X-ray image of the belly area.
X-ray of the Abdomen (1 View) (CPT 74018) costs $30 at Medicare rates. Hospital outpatient rate: $89.
Cost Comparison by Payer
How much Radex abdomen 1 view costs across different settings and payers
Patient Guide: X-ray of the Abdomen (1 View)
What you need to know before your appointment
What to Expect
You lie on a table or stand while one X-ray image of your abdomen is taken.
How Long Does It Take?
5 minutes
Common Reasons Doctors Order This
Abdominal pain, constipation, suspected bowel obstruction, foreign body
How to Prepare
Remove belt and metal from the abdomen area. Inform staff if pregnant.
Procedures Commonly Done Together
These procedures are frequently performed alongside Radex abdomen 1 view
How to Reduce Your Cost for Radex abdomen 1 view
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.
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 (0.89) x CF ($33.40) = $30
Related Procedures
Similar procedures in the same category or body system
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Radex abdomen 1 view cost?
The Medicare facility rate for Radex abdomen 1 view is $30. In a hospital outpatient setting, the rate is $89. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).
How much does Radex abdomen 1 view cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the cost of Radex abdomen 1 view 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 Radex abdomen 1 view?
Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover Radex abdomen 1 view 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.