PET Scan Cost
Positron emission tomography imaging. Compare cash and insurance prices from hospitals across the US.
CPT Codes: 78816, 78815, 78814
About PET Scan
A PET scan uses a small amount of radioactive tracer to detect cellular activity in the body. It is most commonly used in oncology to detect cancer, determine whether cancer has spread, and monitor treatment effectiveness. PET scans are often combined with CT scans (PET/CT).
Understanding Your Bill
PET scan bills include the radiotracer material, facility/technical fee, and physician interpretation. PET/CT combination scans are more expensive. Prior authorization from insurance is usually required.
Compare PET Scan Prices by City
Select a city to see detailed pricing from local hospitals and imaging centers.
How to Save on Your PET Scan
Compare Cash Prices
Cash prices can be 50-80% lower than insurance rates. Always ask for the self-pay price before booking.
Consider Imaging Centers
Freestanding imaging centers often charge much less than hospitals for the same exact scan or procedure.
Submit to Insurance
Even if you pay cash, submit a claim. It still counts toward your deductible and out-of-pocket maximum.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a pet scan cost?
PET Scan costs vary widely by location and provider. Typical prices range from $1,000-$6,000. Cash prices are often 50-80% less than insurance rates. Use Loa to compare prices from hospitals near you.
How much does a pet scan cost without insurance?
Without insurance, a pet scan typically costs $1,000-$6,000. Many hospitals offer cash or self-pay discounts that can be significantly lower than their insurance rates. Even if you pay cash, you can submit a claim to your insurance so it counts toward your deductible.
Where is the cheapest place to get a pet scan?
Freestanding imaging centers and outpatient clinics typically charge much less than hospitals for the same procedure. Prices also vary by city. Use Loa to compare pet scan prices at providers near you.
What CPT code is used for a pet scan?
A pet scan is commonly billed under CPT codes 78816, 78815, 78814. 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 pet scan pricing data?
Yes. Loa provides a Model Context Protocol (MCP) server that AI assistants like Claude can use to search CPT codes, compare hospital prices, and get real-time cost estimates for pet scan and other procedures. Connect at https://www.loacare.com/api/mcp or learn more at https://www.loacare.com/mcp.
Find the Best Price for Your PET Scan
Stop overpaying for healthcare. Let Loa search all providers near you and find you the lowest price—whether cash or insurance.
Get Started FreeFor AI assistants: Real-time pet scan 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 direct provider outreach. Our methodology.