What Is a CT Head (With Contrast)?
A CT scan of the head with contrast provides rapid cross-sectional images of the brain and skull. It's faster than MRI and often the first scan ordered in emergencies.
When Is It Ordered?
Doctors typically order this test for: head trauma, severe headaches, suspected stroke, altered consciousness, or follow-up on known brain conditions.
How Long Does It Take?
10-15 minutes.
How to Prepare
Inform your doctor of any contrast allergies or kidney problems.
How to Save on a CT Head
- Independent imaging centers charge 30-60% less than hospital outpatient departments for the same scan.
- Ask about the cash/self-pay rate — often lower than going through insurance if you haven't met your deductible.
- Request an order from your doctor and take it to the most affordable facility. You don't have to use the hospital your doctor is affiliated with.
- Emergency vs. scheduled: If this isn't urgent, a scheduled outpatient CT costs far less than an ER-based scan.
Compare CT Head Prices Near You — — Live!
We're building a tool to compare real ct head prices at hospitals near your zip code.
Understanding the Cost Breakdown
| Price Type | Amount | Who Pays This |
|---|---|---|
| Medicare rate (facility) | $109 | Medicare beneficiaries (65+, disabled) |
| Medicare rate (non-facility) | $249 | Outpatient/office setting |
| Low cash/negotiated | $918 | Self-pay with negotiation |
| Typical price | $1,683 | Average insured patient |
| High end | $3,059 | Out-of-network or no negotiation |
| Gross charge (sticker) | $14,028 | The "rack rate" nobody should pay |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a CT Head cost without insurance?
Without insurance, a CT Head typically costs between $918 and $3,059, 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 CT Head 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 CT Head?
Medicare pays $109 for a CT Head (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 CT Head?
Most insurance plans cover a CT Head 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 CT Head near me?
Call 3-5 facilities in your area and ask for their "cash pay" or "self-pay" rate for CPT code 70460. 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.