What is the Typical Price Range of a Head MRI Scan?

Brain MRI Scan Pricing: What to Expect and How to Plan

An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scan of the head or brain is a noninvasive procedure that helps examine your brain. It is a safe and painless test that avoids the use of radioactive tracers. In this process, radio waves and a magnetic field are used to produce high-quality dimensional brain images. 

This test helps examine brain anatomy and creates a detailed picture of your brain. If your doctor has recommended an MRI scan of the head, it’s essential to check its cost and the factors that affect its pricing. Read on for more details.

What is the Starting Price of a Brain MRI Scan in India?

The starting price of a head MRI scan varies from one city to another. The table below shows the city-wise starting price of a brain MRI scan:

Note: The prices are sourced from external sources and may vary.

What Factors Affect the Cost of an MRI Scan in India?

Several factors determine the cost of MRI scans in India. Understanding these factors is crucial for making informed decisions. Here are some of them:

●  Type of Scan

MRI scans are of various types for different body parts, such as brain or head MRI scans, joint MRI scans, cardiac MRI scans, etc. The cost of an MRI varies depending on the duration and complexity of the procedure.

●  Technology and Equipment Used

Different diagnostic centres use various technologies and equipment to perform brain MRI scans. Machines with higher magnetic field strengths and advanced features can produce more detailed images, which increases the overall cost of the procedure.

●  Contrast Agents

A head MRI scan with contrast agents is more expensive. This is because contrast agents help create precise images of tissues and blood vessels. Diagnostic centres often charge a higher price to cover the cost of these contrast materials.

●  Radiologist’s Expertise

If an experienced radiologist conducts the MRI scan, they will charge a higher cost. Their expertise ensures accurate diagnosis and excellent service, which can increase the MRI cost.

●  Type and Location of the Facility

The cost of an MRI may vary depending on the type of MRI machine and the location of the facility where the scan is performed. If you choose a private hospital in a metropolitan city, you are likely to pay a higher charge than those in a government hospital in a small town.

●  Timing and Urgency

The price may be higher if the MRI scan is required outside of regular business hours or is performed immediately. Emergency or accelerated services are typically more expensive and need immediate attention and resources.

●  Additional Services

If a patient undergoing an MRI scan is claustrophobic and requires sedation to complete the procedure correctly, it will increase the cost of the MRI scan. Moreover, if the patient needs a follow-up consultation or any additional imaging procedure, the overall cost of the test will be affected.

●  Insurance Coverage

Out-of-pocket expenses can be significantly influenced by the patient's health insurance status and the coverage provided by their policy. While some insurance plans cover MRI scans in full, others can only pay a percentage of the cost, leaving the patient to pay the remaining balance.

Why is a Brain MRI Scan Performed?

A brain MRI scan is a critical diagnostic tool because it provides highly detailed images of the brain’s structure and blood vessels, enabling the detection and evaluation of a wide range of neurological conditions. Here are some of the conditions when it is used:

●  Cysts and Brain Tumors

MRI scans are also highly effective in identifying brain tumours and cysts, often using contrast agents to enhance the visibility of small or otherwise hard-to-detect lesions. Moreover, MRI is used to diagnose and monitor specific conditions such as inflammation of blood vessels, infections leading to abscesses, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, and degenerative diseases.

●  Brain Disorders Related to Stroke

One of its primary uses is to identify stroke-related disorders, such as arterial blockages or haemorrhages, and to assess blood vessel abnormalities like aneurysms, which can lead to strokes or other serious complications. 

MRI with angiography (MRA) is an efficient method for examining blood vessels and diagnosing vascular issues without the need for invasive procedures.

●  Structural Defects

Brain MRI is essential for detecting structural defects, including congenital abnormalities, developmental deformities, and damage resulting from traumatic injuries or medical interventions. It is invaluable in evaluating the impact of accidents or injuries on brain tissue, helping guide treatment decisions.

The general price of a head MRI scan can vary depending on various factors; thus, it is essential to have health insurance to help you cover the expense without depleting your savings. 

At Star Health, we offer coverage for head MRI scans under several of our health insurance policies. We also provide hassle-free claim settlements with reduced turnaround time across over 14,000 network hospitals in India.

Also Read:

→ General Cost of Different Types of Head Scans

→ Recommended Steps to Reduce Swelling on the Head

→ What is the Approximate Cost of a Head CT Scan

→ What are the Most Effective Ways to Eliminate Head Lice

→ What are the Primary Treatments for Different Kinds of Head Injuries