How Much Does an X-Ray Cost with Insurance? What to Expect
If you need an X-ray for a dental or medical issue, you may be wondering how much does an X-ray cost with insurance, and whether your policy will cover the full amount. X-rays are a necessary diagnostic tool, but their costs can vary widely based on:
✔ The type of X-ray needed
✔ Where the imaging is performed (hospital vs. clinic)
✔ Your insurance plan’s coverage details
This guide breaks down X-ray costs with insurance, what factors affect pricing, and how to lower your out-of-pocket expenses.
How Much Does an X-Ray Cost with Insurance?
The cost of an X-ray with insurance depends on your plan’s deductible, co-pay, and provider network.
Average X-Ray Costs (With & Without Insurance)
| Type of X-Ray | Cost Without Insurance | Cost With Insurance (Estimated Co-Pay) |
|---|---|---|
| Chest X-Ray | $100 – $400 | $10 – $50 |
| Dental X-Ray | $25 – $250 | $5 – $50 |
| Arm or Leg X-Ray | $100 – $1,000 | $10 – $100 |
| Abdominal X-Ray | $150 – $500 | $20 – $150 |
| Spine X-Ray | $200 – $1,000 | $20 – $200 |
| Full Body X-Ray | $500 – $1,500 | $50 – $300 |
| MRI or CT Scan | $1,000 – $3,000 | $100 – $500 |
Your co-pay depends on whether the X-ray is performed at a hospital, imaging center, or in-network provider.
What Affects the Cost of an X-Ray?
The cost of an X-ray with insurance can vary based on:
✔ Type of X-Ray – Basic chest or dental X-rays cost less than MRIs or CT scans.
✔ Location – Hospitals charge more than urgent care centers or private imaging clinics.
✔ Insurance Plan Details – Co-pays, deductibles, and provider networks impact costs.
✔ Additional Fees – If your X-ray requires contrast dye, sedation, or multiple views, costs may increase.
✔ In-Network vs. Out-of-Network Providers – Using an in-network provider lowers costs significantly.
Always check with your insurance provider before scheduling an X-ray to understand your expected costs.
Does Insurance Cover the Cost of X-Rays?
Most health and dental insurance plans cover X-rays, but the amount you pay depends on your plan:
How Insurance Covers X-Rays
✔ Preventive & Routine X-Rays – Usually covered 100% once a year for dental and general checkups.
✔ Diagnostic X-Rays – Covered 50-80% after the deductible is met.
✔ Emergency X-Rays – May require higher co-pays or additional hospital fees.
Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance policies may cover X-rays differently. Always check your plan details.
How to Save on X-Ray Costs (Even with Insurance)
If your insurance doesn’t cover all X-ray expenses, here’s how to lower your out-of-pocket costs.
1. Use an In-Network Provider
✔ Insurance companies negotiate lower rates with in-network providers.
✔ Going out-of-network can cost 2-5x more.
Call your insurance company to find the lowest-cost X-ray provider near you.
2. Choose a Standalone Imaging Center
✔ Private imaging centers charge less than hospitals for the same X-ray.
✔ Hospitals add facility fees, increasing costs.
An X-ray that costs $500 at a hospital might only be $100 at an imaging center.
3. Ask for a Cash Pay Discount
✔ Some clinics offer discounts for patients paying out-of-pocket instead of using insurance.
✔ Discounts can range from 10% to 50%.
If your co-pay is high, ask about self-pay rates—they might be cheaper.
4. Consider a Dental or Health Membership Plan
A dental or health savings plan provides discounted rates on X-rays and other services.
✅ Save 30-50% on imaging services
✅ No claim denials or waiting periods
✅ Immediate cost savings at participating providers
Example Savings: A $300 dental X-ray could cost only $150 with a membership plan.
Find affordable X-ray discounts at The Patient Marketplace.
5. Compare Prices Before Scheduling an X-Ray
✔ Call multiple providers and ask for their self-pay X-ray rates.
✔ Some offices offer payment plans or financial assistance programs.
A quick phone call can help you save hundreds of dollars.
Success Story: How One Patient Saved 50% on an X-Ray
Meet David, a 42-year-old who needed a chest X-ray but had a high-deductible insurance plan.
Initial Cost Estimate: $350 at a hospital.
His Solution: David used an independent imaging center that charged $150 for self-pay patients.
Final Cost: $150 total—a 50% savings!
“I didn’t realize hospitals charge so much more—choosing an imaging center saved me hundreds!” – David, 42
FAQs About X-Ray Costs with Insurance
How much does an X-ray cost with insurance?
- $10 – $300, depending on the type of X-ray and insurance coverage.
Does insurance cover all types of X-rays?
✔ Basic and preventive X-rays are often fully covered.
✔ Diagnostic and emergency X-rays may require co-pays or deductible payments.
Where can I get the cheapest X-ray?
✔ Stand-alone imaging centers
✔ Urgent care clinics instead of hospitals
✔ Membership plan providers for discounted rates
Can I get an X-ray without insurance?
✔ Yes! Many clinics offer self-pay discounts and low-cost options for uninsured patients.
Where can I find affordable X-rays near me?
Check The Patient Marketplace for discounted imaging services near you.
Final Thoughts: Get an Affordable X-Ray with Insurance
If you’re wondering how much does an X-ray cost with insurance, the price varies depending on deductibles, provider networks, and type of X-ray needed. However, smart choices can help you reduce costs.
How to Save on X-Rays:
✔ Use an in-network provider to lower costs
✔ Go to an imaging center instead of a hospital
✔ Ask about self-pay discounts or payment plans
✔ Join a membership plan for 30-50% savings
Need an affordable X-ray? Visit The Patient Marketplace to find the best cost-saving options today!
