MRI, or magnetic resonance imaging, is a common procedure that can find abnormalities throughout the body.
It is different from a CT scan because it uses the magnetic force to create signals and reactions with protons in the body.
This creates an image of the internal structures that doctors can use to diagnose and treat a variety of conditions.
CT scans, on the other hand, are simply complete three dimensional x rays of the body.
The cost of MRI scans ranges between $600 and $3500, depending on where your procedure is done and how intensive it is.
For example, having an MRI of your head or chest would be much less expensive than having an MRI of your whole body done.
The more time it takes and the more scanning that is done, the more you will pay for an MRI.
The cost of MRI procedures can often be covered by insurance companies.
However, if the insurance company deems it an unnecessary procedure, you will be on your own to make up the cost of the scan.
You should always inquire with your insurance company prior to having an MRI done to see if it is covered.
The cost of MRI scans is so high because the machines are expensive and the procedure is time consuming.
Additionally, there are new MRI machines that have an open layout, which is more comfortable for many people than older machines.
These wide open MRIs will cost far more than scans done with traditional machines though the cost may be worth it for the extra comfort.