Imaging
PET scan, limited area (e.g., chest or head/neck) cost in California
PET scan, limited area (e.g., chest or head/neck) 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 California
From 90 hospital and 0 clinic prices in California.
Nationwide typical: $3,372 (most listed prices $1,305–$9,266).
Cheapest in California
- $139
The radiologist read is billed separately.
Source: Kaweah Delta Health Care District price file · checked Oct 2026 - $139
The radiologist read is billed separately.
Source: Kaweah Health Mental Health Hospital price file · checked Oct 2026 - University of Michigan Health-Sparrow St. LawrencePET scan, limited area (e.g., chest or head/neck)Scan only$869
The radiologist read is billed separately.
Source: University of Michigan Health-Sparrow St. Lawrence price fil · checked Oct 2026 - $906
The radiologist read is billed separately.
Source: Scripps Green Hospital price file · checked Oct 2026 - $906
The radiologist read is billed separately.
Source: Scripps Memorial Hospital Encinitas price file · checked Oct 2026 - $906
The radiologist read is billed separately.
Source: Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla price file · checked Oct 2026 - $906
The radiologist read is billed separately.
Source: Scripps Mercy Hospital Chula Vista price file · checked Oct 2026 - $906
The radiologist read is billed separately.
Source: Scripps Mercy Hospital San Diego price file · checked Oct 2026 - $1,414
The radiologist read is billed separately. +2 more in this system at the same published price.
Source: Cottage Rehabilitation Hospital price file · checked Oct 2026 - $1,414
The radiologist read is billed separately.
Source: Goleta Valley Cottage Hospital price file · checked Oct 2026 - $1,656
The radiologist read is billed separately.
- $1,656
The radiologist read is billed separately.
See all prices for PET scan, limited area (e.g., chest or head/neck)
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.