What Is a Chest X-ray (2 Views)?
A two-view chest X-ray (PA and lateral) is one of the most common imaging tests. It shows the heart, lungs, airways, blood vessels, and bones of the spine and chest.
When Is It Ordered?
Doctors typically order this test for: cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, pneumonia screening, pre-surgical clearance, or heart failure monitoring.
How Long Does It Take?
5-10 minutes.
How to Prepare
Remove jewelry and metal objects from chest area. No other prep needed.
How to Save on a Chest X-ray
- Urgent care clinics typically charge $50-$100 for X-rays vs. $200-$400+ at hospitals.
- Freestanding imaging centers are even cheaper for scheduled X-rays.
- Skip the ER if possible. An ER chest X-ray includes facility fees that can multiply the cost 3-5x.
Compare Chest X-ray Prices Near You — — Live!
We're building a tool to compare real chest x-ray prices at hospitals near your zip code.
Understanding the Cost Breakdown
| Price Type | Amount | Who Pays This |
|---|---|---|
| Medicare rate (facility) | $18 | Medicare beneficiaries (65+, disabled) |
| Medicare rate (non-facility) | $32 | Outpatient/office setting |
| Low cash/negotiated | $107 | Self-pay with negotiation |
| Typical price | $289 | Average insured patient |
| High end | $434 | Out-of-network or no negotiation |
| Gross charge (sticker) | $2,410 | The "rack rate" nobody should pay |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Chest X-ray cost without insurance?
Without insurance, a Chest X-ray typically costs between $107 and $434, depending on your location and facility. The wide range exists because hospitals set their own prices — there's no standard rate. Always ask for the "self-pay" or "cash pay" price, which is often significantly lower than the listed price.
Why is there such a big price difference between hospitals?
Hospital pricing in the US has historically been opaque. Prices vary based on location (urban vs. rural), facility type (academic medical center vs. community hospital), negotiated insurance rates, and how much the hospital can charge. The same Chest X-ray performed with the same equipment can cost 5-10x more at one facility vs. another in the same city.
What does Medicare pay for a Chest X-ray?
Medicare pays $18 for a Chest X-ray (facility rate). This isn't the "true cost" of the procedure — it's the rate the federal government has negotiated as the largest payer in America. Hospitals claim they lose money at Medicare rates and make up the difference by charging more to private insurance and uninsured patients. The actual cost is likely somewhere between Medicare's rate and what hospitals charge.
Does insurance cover a Chest X-ray?
Most insurance plans cover a Chest X-ray when it's medically necessary (ordered by a doctor for a valid clinical reason). However, you may still owe a copay, coinsurance, or need to meet your deductible first. Always check with your insurance before the procedure and get pre-authorization if required.
How can I find the cheapest Chest X-ray near me?
Call 3-5 facilities in your area and ask for their "cash pay" or "self-pay" rate for CPT code 71046. Independent imaging centers are almost always cheaper than hospital-based imaging departments. We're building a comparison tool that will make this easier — sign up above to get notified.