DEXA Bone Density Scan vs MRI Spine (Lumbar)
Medicare Cost Comparison 2025
Quick Answer
DEXA Bone Density Scan: $200 total · Medicare pays $160 · Patient pays $40
MRI Spine (Lumbar): $1,400 total · Medicare pays $1,120 · Patient pays $280
Cost Comparison
| Metric | DEXA Bone Density Scan | MRI Spine (Lumbar) |
|---|---|---|
| Total Average Cost | $200 | $1,400 |
| Medicare Pays | $160 | $1,120 |
| Patient Pays | $40 | $280 |
| Category | imaging | imaging |
FAQ
What is the cost difference between DEXA Bone Density Scan and MRI Spine (Lumbar)?
MRI Spine (Lumbar) costs $1,400 on average, while DEXA Bone Density Scan costs $200 — a difference of $1,200.
How much does Medicare pay for DEXA Bone Density Scan vs MRI Spine (Lumbar)?
Medicare typically pays $160 for DEXA Bone Density Scan (patient owes $40). For MRI Spine (Lumbar), Medicare pays $1,120 (patient owes $280).
What is DEXA Bone Density Scan?
Low-dose X-ray to measure bone mineral density.
What is MRI Spine (Lumbar)?
Magnetic resonance imaging of the lower spine.