MRI, lower back (no contrast)
Facility: Lmh
Billing Code: 72148 (CPT)
- CPT Billing Code: 72148
- Insurance Median: $240
- Cash Discount Price: $1,116
- vs. Medicare Baseline: 0.98x Medicare
Average discount available for prompt cash payment at this facility.
Median negotiated contract rate across all mapped commercial carriers.
Standard federal government reimbursement rate for this code.
Visual Cost Comparison vs. Medicare
Understanding this gauge: We use the federal Medicare rate of $243.77 as the cost baseline. Rates below the baseline represent excellent value. In-network commercial rates commonly hover around 150% - 250% of Medicare, while rates exceeding 300% are elevated. Hover over the green and blue markers to view detailed calculations.
Out-of-Pocket Cost Estimator
Estimate whether it is more economical to use your insurance or pay the upfront self-pay cash rate.
Commercial Insurance Negotiated Rates
Negotiated contract ranges established by major commercial carriers at this facility.
| Carrier / Plan Group | Contract Rate Range | vs. Medicare Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Cigna | $90 - $2,981 | 37% |
| Medicare (plans) | $90 - $240 | 37% |
| Humana | $90 - $240 | 37% |
| UnitedHealthcare | $90 - $2,963 | 37% |
| Haskell Indian Health Services | $105 - $240 | 43% |
| Blue Cross Blue Shield | $105 - $2,887 | 43% |
| Allwell | $107 - $245 | 44% |
| Ambetter / Centene | $107 - $372 | 44% |
| Aetna | $1,721 - $3,703 | 706% |
| Non Contracted | $3,570 | 1464% |
| First Health | $4,150 | 1702% |
Consumer Guidance & Cost Commentary
For this MRI of the lower back (no contrast) at Lmh in Lawrence, KS, the cash price is $1,116, which is significantly lower than the facility's gross charge of $4,462. While the facility is government-owned and holds a 4-star rating, patients should be aware that commercial insurance negotiated rates often exceed cash prices due to administrative overhead and contract structures. For instance, UnitedHealthcare's range spans from $90 to $2,963, and Aetna's range is $1,721 to $3,703, both of which can be higher than the cash rate. If you have a high-deductible plan, paying the cash price upfront may result in immediate savings compared to the negotiated rates your insurer would pay, provided you have not yet met your deductible.
To ensure you are receiving the best possible rate, it is crucial to request an itemized billing audit before finalizing payment, as over 80% of hospital bills contain errors such as unbundled codes or services not rendered. Additionally, ask the billing department about "prompt-pay" discounts, which can reduce the total cost by 20% to 50% if you settle the bill in full within 30 days. While the facility's negotiated average is $240, this figure likely reflects specific plan tiers or self-pay classifications rather than the standard commercial allowed amount for all members. Always verify your specific plan's allowed amount and confirm whether you qualify for self-pay discounts prior to scheduling your appointment.