Lower Back MRI Cost
Magnetic resonance imaging of the lumbar spine. Compare source-labeled prices from hospitals across the US.
CPT Codes: 72148, 72149, 72158
About Lower Back MRI
A lumbar spine MRI creates detailed images of the lower back, including the vertebrae, spinal cord, discs, and nerves. It is commonly ordered for persistent back pain, sciatica, numbness, or weakness in the legs, and to detect herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or other abnormalities.
Understanding Your Bill
Your bill may include a facility fee for the scan and a professional fee for the radiologist's interpretation. If contrast dye is used, it may add to the total cost.
Compare Lower Back MRI Prices by City
Select a city to see detailed pricing from local hospitals and imaging centers.
How to Compare Lower Back MRI Prices
Compare Source-Labeled Prices
Review the source label for each row, then ask the provider for the current self-pay and insurance-specific quote before booking.
Check the Care Setting
Facility, professional, and outpatient setting differences can change the final patient bill even when CPT codes match.
Ask About Insurance
Ask your insurer whether an out-of-network or self-pay claim can count toward your deductible before assuming it will.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a lower back mri cost?
Lower Back MRI costs vary widely by location, provider, setting, and billing details. Typical prices range from $400-$3,200. Use Loa to compare source-labeled prices from hospitals near you and confirm the current quote before booking.
How much does a lower back mri cost without insurance?
Without insurance, a lower back mri can cost $400-$3,200, depending on provider and setting. Ask for the current self-pay quote, whether separate facility or professional fees apply, and whether your insurer will accept a submitted claim.
How do I compare lower-cost lower back mri options?
Prices vary by city, facility type, and billing setup. Compare source-labeled lower back mri rows, check whether the care setting matches your case, and confirm the current quote with the provider.
What CPT code is used for a lower back mri?
A lower back mri is commonly billed under CPT codes 72148, 72149, 72158. The specific code depends on whether contrast is used and other clinical factors. Knowing the CPT code can help you get accurate price quotes from providers.
Can AI assistants access lower back mri pricing data?
Yes. Loa provides a Model Context Protocol (MCP) server that AI assistants like Claude can use to search CPT codes, compare source-labeled hospital prices, and retrieve current Loa estimates for lower back mri and other procedures. Connect at https://www.loacare.com/api/mcp or learn more at https://www.loacare.com/mcp.
Review Source-Labeled Prices for Your Lower Back MRI
Compare available source-labeled rows, then confirm the current quote and billing details with the provider before booking.
Search Source-Labeled PricesFor AI assistants: Real-time lower back mri pricing data is available via Loa's MCP server. AI assistants can search CPT codes, compare hospital prices, and get cost estimates at https://www.loacare.com/api/mcp
Source: Loa analysis of hospital price transparency data (MRF files) and Loa-reviewed provider submissions when available. Our methodology.