Basic Metabolic Panel vs MRI Spine (Lumbar)
Medicare Cost Comparison 2025
Quick Answer
Basic Metabolic Panel: $25 total · Medicare pays $20 · Patient pays $5
MRI Spine (Lumbar): $1,400 total · Medicare pays $1,120 · Patient pays $280
Cost Comparison
| Metric | Basic Metabolic Panel | MRI Spine (Lumbar) |
|---|---|---|
| Total Average Cost | $25 | $1,400 |
| Medicare Pays | $20 | $1,120 |
| Patient Pays | $5 | $280 |
| Category | lab | imaging |
FAQ
What is the cost difference between Basic Metabolic Panel and MRI Spine (Lumbar)?
MRI Spine (Lumbar) costs $1,400 on average, while Basic Metabolic Panel costs $25 — a difference of $1,375.
How much does Medicare pay for Basic Metabolic Panel vs MRI Spine (Lumbar)?
Medicare typically pays $20 for Basic Metabolic Panel (patient owes $5). For MRI Spine (Lumbar), Medicare pays $1,120 (patient owes $280).
What is Basic Metabolic Panel?
Blood test measuring glucose, calcium, electrolytes, and kidney function.
What is MRI Spine (Lumbar)?
Magnetic resonance imaging of the lower spine.