Imaging - MRI
MRI thoracic spine without contrast cost in Minnesota
MRI thoracic spine without contrast is an imaging test. Cash prices for imaging vary widely: hospitals often charge several times what an independent imaging center charges for the same scan.
Typical cash price
In Minnesota
From 99 hospital and 1 clinic prices in Minnesota.
Nationwide typical: $1,868 (most listed prices $515–$5,341).
Usually included: the scan itself (technical fee) + the radiologist's read (professional fee).
Good to know: Imaging centers usually quote all-in (global). Hospitals usually list the technical charge only, and the radiologist bills separately.
Cheapest in Minnesota
Total price
MRI thoracic spine without contrast
The scan + the radiologist's read
How totals are compared
Every total covers the same bundle: the scan + the radiologist's read. Where a hospital does not publish a part, the typical published amount is added and the total is marked estimated.
In Minnesota, from 100 providers. Most listed prices: $489–$3,193.
Cheapest totals nearby
- HealthEast St. John's Hospital$274Hospital · MaplewoodEstimated: adds a typical amount for unpublished parts
- $280
- $287
- $111Source: Winona Health Services price file · checked Oct 2026
- $128Source: Grand Itasca Clinic and Hospital price file · checked Oct 2026
- M Health Fairview University of Minnesota Medical CenterMRI mid-back (thoracic spine) without contrastRead only$159Source: M Health Fairview University of Minnesota Medical price fil · checked Oct 2026
- $162Source: Hennepin Healthcare price file · checked Oct 2026
- $99.07est. $274 total
The radiologist read is billed separately.
Source: HealthEast St. John's Hospital price file · checked Oct 2026 - $105est. $280 total
The radiologist read is billed separately.
Source: Windom Area Health price file · checked Oct 2026 - $112est. $287 total
The radiologist read is billed separately.
Source: Lakewood Health System price file · checked Oct 2026 - $118est. $293 total
The radiologist read is billed separately.
Source: Ridgeview Medical Center price file · checked Oct 2026 - $136est. $311 total
The radiologist read is billed separately.
Source: Astera Health price file · checked Oct 2026 - $156est. $331 total
The radiologist read is billed separately.
Source: Sibley Medical Center price file · checked Oct 2026 - $168est. $343 total
The radiologist read is billed separately.
Source: Minnesota Valley Health Center Inc. price file · checked Oct 2026 - $177est. $352 total
The radiologist read is billed separately.
Source: LifeCare Medical Center price file · checked Oct 2026
Common questions
Is the radiologist's read included?
Not always. Hospitals usually list the scan (technical fee) and the radiologist's read (professional fee) separately. Many imaging centers quote one all-in price. Look for the "All-in", "Scan only" or "Read only" label on each price.
Do I need a referral?
Most imaging tests need an order from a doctor, nurse practitioner or physician assistant. Some imaging centers can arrange one; ask when you call.
Why are prices so different?
Each hospital and clinic sets its own cash price. Hospitals publish prices because federal rules require it; clinics and booking sites set prices to compete. The same service can cost several times more at one place than at another nearby.
Can I pay cash if I have insurance?
Yes. You can choose to self-pay. A cash price is often lower than what you would pay before meeting your deductible. Cash payments may not count toward your deductible, so check with your plan. Our cash vs. insurance tool can help you decide.
What is a Good Faith Estimate?
If you are uninsured or paying cash, providers must give you a Good Faith Estimate of the cost on request. If your final bill is $400 or more above the estimate, you can dispute it.