Hemoglobin A1C vs MRI Spine (Lumbar)
Medicare Cost Comparison 2025
Quick Answer
Hemoglobin A1C: $30 total · Medicare pays $24 · Patient pays $6
MRI Spine (Lumbar): $1,400 total · Medicare pays $1,120 · Patient pays $280
Cost Comparison
| Metric | Hemoglobin A1C | MRI Spine (Lumbar) |
|---|---|---|
| Total Average Cost | $30 | $1,400 |
| Medicare Pays | $24 | $1,120 |
| Patient Pays | $6 | $280 |
| Category | lab | imaging |
FAQ
What is the cost difference between Hemoglobin A1C and MRI Spine (Lumbar)?
MRI Spine (Lumbar) costs $1,400 on average, while Hemoglobin A1C costs $30 — a difference of $1,370.
How much does Medicare pay for Hemoglobin A1C vs MRI Spine (Lumbar)?
Medicare typically pays $24 for Hemoglobin A1C (patient owes $6). For MRI Spine (Lumbar), Medicare pays $1,120 (patient owes $280).
What is Hemoglobin A1C?
Blood test measuring average blood sugar over 2-3 months.
What is MRI Spine (Lumbar)?
Magnetic resonance imaging of the lower spine.