Imaging
Salivary gland function scan (nuclear medicine) cost in California
Salivary gland function scan (nuclear medicine) 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 52 hospital and 0 clinic prices in California.
Nationwide typical: $587 (most listed prices $179–$1,894).
Cheapest in California
- $43.46
The radiologist read is billed separately.
Source: Torrance Memorial Medical Center price file · checked Oct 2026 - $156
The radiologist read is billed separately.
Source: St. Joseph's Medical Center Stockton price file · checked Oct 2026 - $263
The radiologist read is billed separately.
Source: Mercy Medical Center Merced price file · checked Oct 2026 - $361
The radiologist read is billed separately.
Source: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital price file · checked Oct 2026 - $365
The radiologist read is billed separately.
Source: Mercy Hospitals – Bakersfield price file · checked Oct 2026 - $382
The radiologist read is billed separately.
Source: Scripps Green Hospital price file · checked Oct 2026 - $382
The radiologist read is billed separately.
Source: Scripps Memorial Hospital Encinitas price file · checked Oct 2026 - $382
The radiologist read is billed separately.
Source: Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla price file · checked Oct 2026 - $382
The radiologist read is billed separately.
Source: Scripps Mercy Hospital Chula Vista price file · checked Oct 2026 - $382
The radiologist read is billed separately.
Source: Scripps Mercy Hospital San Diego price file · checked Oct 2026 - $426
The radiologist read is billed separately.
Source: UC San Diego Health price file · checked Oct 2026 - $426
The radiologist read is billed separately.
Source: California Hospital Medical Center price file · checked Oct 2026
See all prices for Salivary gland function scan (nuclear medicine)
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.