Radiology
Diagnostic imaging and image-guided procedures including X-ray, CT, MRI, ultrasound, and interventional radiology
Radiology is the specialty focused on diagnostic imaging and image-guided procedures including x-ray, ct, mri, ultrasound, and interventional radiology. OpenDoc separates it into focused subspecialty paths so patients can start in the right care lane before they book. Transparent pricing on this page currently ranges from $50 to $3,500 across 20 common visit types. Radiology is where the largest pricing variation in all of healthcare exists — the same MRI can cost $400 at an independent imaging center or $4,000 at a hospital outpatient facility. OpenDoc radiology providers offer X-rays starting at $50 and MRIs starting at $300, with transparent all-inclusive pricing covering both the technical and professional (reading) fees. Over 80 million CT scans and 40 million MRIs are performed annually in the US, making imaging one of the highest-impact areas for cash-pay savings.
Common services and transparent pricing
Pricing estimates are modeled from the current OpenDoc specialty taxonomy, visit archetypes, and transparent cash-pay assumptions. Posted provider pricing should be treated as the source of truth whenever it is available. Pricing last reviewed April 8, 2026.
- X-Ray (Single View) — $50–$150: X-Ray (Single View) is a common radiology entry point on OpenDoc with transparent pricing before booking.
- X-Ray (Multi-View Series) — $75–$250: X-Ray (Multi-View Series) is a common radiology entry point on OpenDoc with transparent pricing before booking.
- CT Scan (Without Contrast) — $200–$600: CT Scan (Without Contrast) is a common radiology entry point on OpenDoc with transparent pricing before booking.
- CT Scan (With Contrast) — $300–$900: CT Scan (With Contrast) is a common radiology entry point on OpenDoc with transparent pricing before booking.
- MRI (Without Contrast) — $300–$800: MRI (Without Contrast) is a common radiology entry point on OpenDoc with transparent pricing before booking.
- MRI (With and Without Contrast) — $400–$1200: MRI (With and Without Contrast) is a common radiology entry point on OpenDoc with transparent pricing before booking.
- Ultrasound (Diagnostic) — $100–$350: Ultrasound (Diagnostic) is a common radiology entry point on OpenDoc with transparent pricing before booking.
- Screening Mammogram — $100–$250: Screening Mammogram is a screening-focused radiology service for earlier detection, monitoring, or preventive care planning.
- Diagnostic Mammogram — $150–$400: Diagnostic Mammogram is a common radiology entry point on OpenDoc with transparent pricing before booking.
- 3D Mammogram (Tomosynthesis) — $150–$350: 3D Mammogram (Tomosynthesis) is a screening-focused radiology service for earlier detection, monitoring, or preventive care planning.
- Bone Density Scan (DEXA) — $75–$200: Bone Density Scan (DEXA) is a screening-focused radiology service for earlier detection, monitoring, or preventive care planning.
- Fluoroscopy Study — $200–$600: Fluoroscopy Study is a common radiology entry point on OpenDoc with transparent pricing before booking.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an MRI cost without insurance?
Cash-pay MRI pricing ranges from $300 to $800 without contrast and $400 to $1,200 with contrast at independent imaging centers. Hospital outpatient MRIs often cost $1,500 to $4,000+ for the same scan. OpenDoc lists all-inclusive pricing covering both the technical fee (facility) and professional fee (radiologist reading).
How much does a CT scan cost out of pocket?
A CT scan without contrast costs $200 to $600 cash pay at independent centers. With contrast, prices range from $300 to $900. Hospital-based CT scans typically cost 2-4x more. The specific body part scanned does not dramatically change pricing — the contrast requirement is the main cost variable.
What is the difference between a CT scan and an MRI?
CT scans use X-rays and are faster (15-20 minutes), better for bones, bleeding, and lung imaging. MRIs use magnetic fields with no radiation and take longer (30-75 minutes) but provide superior soft tissue detail for brain, spinal cord, joints, and ligaments. Your ordering physician will recommend the appropriate study based on your clinical question.
Do I need a doctor's order to get an MRI or CT scan?
Most imaging centers and OpenDoc radiology providers require a physician's order for CT and MRI scans to ensure medical appropriateness. Some screenings like mammograms may be self-referred. If you don't have an order, many OpenDoc providers offer a brief consultation to evaluate your need and write the order during the same visit.
How much does a mammogram cost without insurance?
A screening mammogram costs $100 to $250 cash pay, while a diagnostic mammogram (ordered for a specific symptom or finding) costs $150 to $400. 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) costs $150 to $350. These are significantly less than hospital-based pricing, which often exceeds $500-800.
How much does a PET scan cost cash pay?
A PET/CT scan typically costs $1,000 to $3,500 at independent imaging facilities. Hospital-based PET scans frequently exceed $5,000 to $8,000. PET scans are most commonly used for cancer staging, monitoring treatment response, and evaluating suspected recurrence.
What is the difference between a screening and diagnostic mammogram?
A screening mammogram is a routine annual exam for women with no breast symptoms, typically covered even in self-pay scenarios at lower cost. A diagnostic mammogram is ordered when there is a specific concern — such as a lump, pain, nipple discharge, or an abnormal screening result — and includes additional views and often immediate ultrasound.
Why are imaging prices so different between facilities?
Hospital outpatient imaging departments charge a facility fee on top of the professional (reading) fee, often doubling or tripling the total cost. Independent imaging centers operate with lower overhead and single all-inclusive pricing. The clinical quality of the images and readings is comparable — the price difference is entirely structural.