Easy Trick to Get an MRI Fast
If you’re willing to pay out of pocket for an MRI without using insurance, you may have more flexibility and potentially access to quicker appointments. Many times it will actually cost you less money. Here at Easy Orthopedic in Colorado Springs, we frequently order expedited MRIs.
Private imaging centers: Private imaging centers often offer services on a fee-for-service basis. Since they don’t have to deal with insurance pre-approvals and processing, they may be able to schedule your MRI appointment more quickly. You can contact these centers directly to inquire about their pricing and availability.
Cash-pay discounts: Many healthcare providers and imaging centers offer discounts for patients who pay upfront in cash, as it reduces administrative costs associated with billing insurance companies. By paying out of pocket, you may be eligible for these discounts, which can make the MRI more affordable while potentially expediting the scheduling process.
Flexible scheduling: Without the constraints of insurance requirements, private imaging centers may have more flexibility in scheduling appointments. They may be able to accommodate your preferred date and time, including offering same-day or next-day appointments in some cases.
No insurance pre-authorization: Insurance companies often require pre-authorization for certain medical procedures, including MRIs. This process can take time and delay your appointment. By paying out of pocket, you bypass this step, which can expedite the process significantly.
Avoiding insurance limitations: Some insurance plans have restrictions on the number of MRIs covered within a certain timeframe or may require documentation of medical necessity. By paying out of pocket, you can bypass these limitations and proceed with the MRI without waiting for insurance approval.
Can you get an MRI in one day?
Yes, it’s possible to get an MRI done in one day, especially if the circumstances require urgent imaging. Here’s how it might happen:
Urgent medical need: If your healthcare provider determines that you have an urgent medical need for an MRI, they may expedite the process to ensure you receive timely care. This could be due to symptoms indicating a serious condition, such as severe pain, neurological issues, or suspected internal injuries.
Same-day scheduling: Some imaging centers offer same-day appointments for MRIs, particularly for urgent cases. You can contact the imaging center directly or have your healthcare provider assist you in scheduling an appointment on short notice.
Private imaging centers: Private imaging centers, which operate independently of hospital systems, may have more flexibility in scheduling appointments and can often accommodate same-day or next-day requests. These facilities typically focus on efficiency and patient convenience, which can lead to quicker turnaround times for imaging services.
Emergency department: If your situation is urgent and requires immediate attention, you may be able to receive an MRI at a hospital emergency department. Emergency departments are equipped to handle urgent medical needs and may have the resources to perform imaging studies promptly. However, most ERs won’t do MRIs.
Cash-pay option: If you’re willing to pay out of pocket for the MRI without going through insurance, you may have more flexibility in scheduling the appointment. Private imaging centers often offer cash-pay options and may be able to accommodate your request for a same-day appointment.
Can you get an MRI scan without a referral?
Generally speaking you cannot get an MRI without a health care provider first giving you a referral. MRIs need to be read in context so getting one without a physician seeing you may lead to more confusion, and in many states is illegal.
In some states other providers such as physical therapy and chiropractors can order MRIs, while in others only physicians can.
How much does an MRI cost out of pocket?
The cost of an MRI scan can vary widely depending on several factors such as the location, the specific part of the body being scanned, the type of MRI (e.g., with or without contrast), and the facility where it is performed. Generally, here are some typical cost ranges for private MRI scans:
Basic MRI Scan: $400 – $3,500
Specialized MRI Scan (e.g., with contrast): $600 – $4,500
Factors Influencing Cost:
Location: Prices can be higher in urban areas compared to rural areas.
Type of Facility: Hospital-based facilities may charge more than independent imaging centers.
Body Part: MRI of the brain, spine, or joints might have different costs.
Use of Contrast: MRI scans that require a contrast agent (dye) are usually more expensive.
Technology and Equipment: Newer, high-field MRI machines can be more expensive to use.
Radiologist Fees: The cost may include fees for interpretation by a radiologist.
It’s best to contact specific imaging centers or hospitals to get accurate pricing for your particular needs. Some facilities may also offer discounts or payment plans, so it is worth inquiring about those options as well.
I hope we were able to answer some of your questions about an easy trick to get an MRI fast. If you would like us to evaluate you, and are in the Colorado area, contact us below to make an appointment at Easy Orthopedics.
