Why do mri machines cost so much

Opinions are our own, but compensation and in-depth research determine where and how companies may appear. Learn more about how we make money. When it comes to pricey hospital procedures, MRIs come to mind. Here's what's behind that number. Magnetic resonance imaging machines use magnets and radio waves to produce black-and-white images of bones and organs, usually to help with a diagnosis. Only five companies make MRI machines, and each specializes in a few magnet strengths, so there is relatively little competition when it comes time for a hospital or medical center to buy one.

Machines come in a variety of sizes and powers. These costs are pushed on patients. Because these specialty clinics focus on imaging, they typically do more MRIs than hospitals. This allows the equipment, maintenance and administration fees to be spread over more patients, lowering the cost for each patient.

To make matters worse, hospitals often charge more for certain tests to cover the costs of other departments. Emergency rooms and intensive care units are notoriously expensive to run, and they often lose money. To make up for this loss, hospitals may upcharge your MRI. Payment method can also impact the cost of an MRI. Paying out of pocket may cost more than billing insurers.

Or hospitals or clinics may offer discounts to people who pay in cash. At American Health Imaging , we offer cost-effective, quality MRIs for our patients, and we do it with full transparency. Whether you are a patient or a doctor, contact us to learn how we can meet your imaging needs.

Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website.

These cookies do not store any personal information. Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies.

Intermediate 1. Premium 3. Which Tier Is Right for You? Oct 25, by Paul Crawford. Oct 13, by Chris Kinnas. More questions?