I live in Connecticut. The cost of my initial MRI (the one that 'found' my AN) was
$5,500. That was in May, 2006. I had a $500. deductible.
Once my deductible was met, I had a 10% co-pay to deal with from that point on. Before very long, I had surpassed the $2,500. limit on 'out-of-pocket' expenses my policy dictated and Blue Cross paid everything connected with my surgery and radiation treatments at 100% - almost $100,000., including all the hospital charges and physician's fees. I had two more MRI scans last year and I'm scheduled for another in April. As this is a new calendar year, that means another $500. bill. However, both my neurosurgeon and I
want the MRI and I'm thankful I have the medical insurance that pays 90% of the huge expense incurred by having that crucial MRI scan (with contrast).
Incidentally, most hospitals will accept monthly payments for their charges, as long as you can pay off your bill in 12 months (and don't miss any payments). I'm doing this and I've almost paid off my obligation for the bill I incurred for my 2006 AN surgery, (the portions not covered by Blue Cross). I was pleasantly surprised at the hospital's willingness to 'work with me' on my bill. I can't guarantee that all hospitals will be as cooperative but it's certainly worth a try.
Bottom line: MRI scans are
expensive.
Jim
