How Much Does X-ray of the Full Spine (2-3 Views) Cost?
Also known as: X-ray exam entire spi 2/3 vw (CPT 72082)
X-ray images of the entire spine from neck to lower back.
X-ray of the Full Spine (2-3 Views) (CPT 72082) costs $72 at Medicare rates. Hospital outpatient rate: $107.
Cost Comparison by Payer
How much X-ray exam entire spi 2/3 vw costs across different settings and payers
Patient Guide: X-ray of the Full Spine (2-3 Views)
What you need to know before your appointment
What to Expect
You stand or lie down while images are taken of your entire spine from multiple angles.
How Long Does It Take?
10-15 minutes
Common Reasons Doctors Order This
Scoliosis evaluation, full spine assessment, spinal alignment check
How to Prepare
Remove all metal from the torso. Inform staff if pregnant.
Procedures Commonly Done Together
These procedures are frequently performed alongside X-ray exam entire spi 2/3 vw
How to Reduce Your Cost for X-ray exam entire spi 2/3 vw
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 (2.15) x CF ($33.40) = $72
Related Procedures
Similar procedures in the same category or body system
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does X-ray exam entire spi 2/3 vw cost?
The Medicare facility rate for X-ray exam entire spi 2/3 vw is $72. In a hospital outpatient setting, the rate is $107. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).
How much does X-ray exam entire spi 2/3 vw cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the cost of X-ray exam entire spi 2/3 vw 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 X-ray exam entire spi 2/3 vw?
Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover X-ray exam entire spi 2/3 vw 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.